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SKF 38393: vacillatory behavior in immature rats
L J Molino1, A Shemer, P M Whitaker-Azmitia
1Department of Psychology, New York University, NY 10003.
European Journal of Pharmacology
|February 28, 1989
Summary
SKF 38393 administration to young rats impaired decision-making and spontaneous alternation. These behavioral deficits resolved by adulthood, indicating transient effects of this dopamine receptor agonist.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Dopamine receptor agonists can influence cognitive functions.
- Postnatal development is a critical period for brain maturation and behavioral emergence.
- Understanding the impact of pharmacological agents during development is crucial for assessing long-term effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of SKF 38393, a dopamine D1 receptor agonist, on behavioral development in rat pups.
- To assess the impact of SKF 38393 on decision-making and spontaneous alternation at different developmental stages.
Main Methods:
- Postnatal rat pups were administered SKF 38393 on postnatal days 15 and 30.
- Behavioral assessments, including spontaneous alternation and decision-making tasks, were conducted on day 15.
- Control groups received a placebo for comparison.
Main Results:
- On postnatal day 15, SKF 38393 administration resulted in significant deficits in spontaneous alternation and decision-making.
- Treated groups exhibited less alternation and increased vacillatory behavior across all tested dosages.
- These behavioral impairments were no longer observed on postnatal day 30.
Conclusions:
- SKF 38393 transiently impairs cognitive functions related to decision-making and spatial navigation in developing rats.
- The observed behavioral deficits are temporary, resolving as the animals mature.
- This suggests a critical window during postnatal development where dopamine D1 receptor signaling influences specific cognitive processes.