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Spatial memory-related brain activity in normally reared and different maternal separation models in rats
María Banqueri1, Marta Méndez1, Jorge L Arias1
1Laboratory of Neuroscience, Department of Psychology. University of Oviedo, Plaza Feijoo, s/n, E-33003, Oviedo, Spain; Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), Spain.
Physiology & Behavior
|September 13, 2017
Summary
Early life stress from maternal separation impacts spatial learning and brain energy metabolism in male rats. While learning was similar, different brain networks and energy demands were observed based on separation duration.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Animal Models
Background:
- Early life stress, including maternal separation, can significantly impact neurodevelopment and behavior.
- Understanding the long-term effects of varying durations of maternal separation is crucial for identifying sensitive developmental periods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of different durations of maternal separation on spatial learning and memory in adult male rats.
- To examine the impact of maternal separation on brain energy metabolism using cytochrome oxidase histochemistry.
Main Methods:
- Wistar rats were divided into three groups: maternally raised (AFR), separated from postnatal day 1-10 (MS10), and separated from postnatal day 1-21 (MS21).
- Spatial learning and memory were assessed using the Morris Water Maze (MWM).
- Quantitative cytochrome oxidase (COx) histochemistry was performed on selected brain areas to measure energy metabolism.
Main Results:
- All groups showed similar spatial learning patterns in the MWM, with the MS10 group exhibiting faster acquisition.
- Despite similar behavioral outcomes, different brain networks with varying energy consumption were utilized by each group.
- The MS10 group demonstrated higher energy expenditure for equivalent behavioral performance compared to AFR and MS21 groups.
Conclusions:
- Maternal separation duration influences brain energy metabolism associated with spatial learning, even when behavioral acquisition is comparable.
- The MS10 group showed increased metabolic demands, suggesting compensatory mechanisms or altered neural pathway recruitment.
- Longer maternal separation (MS21) resulted in energy demands more similar to non-separated controls, indicating potential adaptation or different developmental trajectories.
