Animal models ERQ studies Flashcards
(18 cards)
Rosenzweig et al. (1972): Aim
To investigate whether environmental factors (enriched or deprived conditions) affect brain development in rats.
Rosenzweig et al. (1972): Method
Rats were randomly assigned to either enriched, deprived, or standard environments for 30-60 days. Their brains were then dissected and analyzed.
Rosenzweig et al. (1972): Results
Rats in enriched environments had thicker cerebral cortexes and heavier brains than those in deprived conditions.
Rosenzweig et al. (1972): Conclusion
Environmental stimulation leads to neuroplasticity, supporting the idea that experience can shape brain structure.
Rosenzweig et al. (1972): Relevance to ERQ
Shows how animal models can reveal how the brain responds to environmental stimuli. Supports the brain-behavior link and generalizability to human neuroplasticity.
Rosenzweig et al. (1972): Ethical considerations
Use of euthanasia and deprivation may raise ethical concerns. Justified by scientific value, but limited by modern animal welfare standards.
Meaney et al. (1988): Aim
To investigate how maternal care affects stress responses in rats via glucocorticoid receptor gene expression.
Meaney et al. (1988): Method
Compared rats raised by attentive (licking/grooming) vs. inattentive mothers. Measured cortisol levels and gene expression related to stress.
Meaney et al. (1988): Results
Rats with more maternal care had better stress regulation and higher expression of glucocorticoid receptor genes.
Meaney et al. (1988): Conclusion
Maternal care can epigenetically program the stress response system. Hormones and genes both play a role.
Meaney et al. (1988): Relevance to ERQ
Demonstrates hormonal and genetic influences on behavior using an animal model. Provides insight into early-life stress and development in humans.
Meaney et al. (1988): Ethical considerations
Rats were separated from mothers and subjected to stress, raising concerns. However, valuable for understanding human development.
Cases et al. (1995): Aim
To study the role of the MAOA gene in aggression using transgenic mice.
Cases et al. (1995): Method
MAOA knockout mice (lacking the gene) were observed for behavioral differences compared to normal mice.
Cases et al. (1995): Results
MAOA-deficient mice exhibited increased aggression and abnormal brain serotonin levels.
Cases et al. (1995): Conclusion
The MAOA gene influences aggressive behavior. Genetic modification in animals can model human behavioral genetics.
Cases et al. (1995): Relevance to ERQ
Shows gene-behavior link through animal models. Supports biological explanations of aggression in humans.
Cases et al. (1995): Ethical considerations
Genetic modification and increased aggression in mice may cause suffering. Raises concerns about long-term welfare.
