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Genetic selection of alcohol preference can be countered by conditioning processes
D V Gauvin1, S A Vanecek, T J Baird
1Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73190-3000, USA. dgauvin@rex.re.uokhsc.edu
Alcohol (Fayetteville, N.Y.)
|April 16, 1998
Summary
This study compared alcohol consumption in P rats and NP rats, finding similar intake patterns over time. While P rats initially drank more, both groups consumed equivalent amounts by four months, similar to other rat strains.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Understanding factors influencing alcohol consumption is crucial for addiction research.
- Rat models are commonly used to study alcohol intake behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare alcohol consumption patterns between P rats and NP rats.
- To assess the long-term alcohol intake behavior in these rat models.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-four P rats and 24 NP rats were conditioned to consume 10% alcohol (w/v).
- A modified Samson's sucrose fading procedure was used for conditioning.
- Alcohol intake was measured during daily 0.5-hour limited access periods.
Main Results:
- Both P and NP rats exhibited similar day-to-day alcohol intake patterns.
- Initially, P rats consumed higher amounts of alcohol than NP rats.
- By the fourth month, alcohol consumption levels between P and NP rats became equivalent.
- Both groups' alcohol intake levels were comparable to Wistar and Sprague-Dawley rats.
Conclusions:
- P and NP rats show comparable long-term alcohol consumption behaviors.
- Limited access periods and conditioning methods yield consistent alcohol intake patterns.
- These findings contribute to understanding genetic and environmental influences on alcohol preference in rats.