[Normalization of the adaptive avoidance reaction in rats using substances with nootropic activity]

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Animal Behavior

Background:

• Extrapolation behavior is crucial for spatial navigation.
• Protein synthesis inhibition can impair cognitive functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of cycloheximide on rat's spatial extrapolation.
• To evaluate the potential of nootropics in counteracting cycloheximide-induced deficits.
• To establish a screening method for nootropic drugs.

Main Methods:

• A double coaxial cylinder water maze was used to assess extrapolation behavior in rats.
• Cycloheximide was administered to induce cognitive impairment.
• The effects of piracetam, sodium hydroxybutyrate, lithium hydroxybutyrate, and phenazepam were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Cycloheximide significantly impaired the rats' extrapolation ability.
• Nootropic agents (piracetam, sodium and lithium hydroxybutyrate) antagonized the cycloheximide effects.
• Phenazepam, a benzodiazepine, exacerbated the deficit.

Conclusions:

• The cycloheximide-induced deficit in extrapolation behavior is a valid model for screening nootropics.
• Nootropics demonstrate potential in reversing protein synthesis inhibition-related cognitive impairments.
• Benzodiazepines may negatively impact spatial extrapolation abilities.