Modelling depression; a comparison of different rodent models

Bakker, M. (2013) Modelling depression; a comparison of different rodent models. Bachelor's Thesis, Biology.

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Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a severe mood disorder in humans. The aetiology of the pathology is still unclear. In order to study the disease, animal models are often used. Over the years, different animal models for depression have been developed, but it is unclear if every model is equally suitable. Therefore it is necessary to compare these models and the tests that can be used when measuring depression. The aim of this thesis is to make a comparison of several animal models for the study of depression and try to identify the best models. When discussing these models, the face validity (similarity of symptoms between patients and animals), the construct validity (similarity of pathogenesis) and the predictive validity (effect of antidepressants) are evaluated. Also the usability (simplicity) and reliability (consistency over time) are discussed. In models for depression both behaviour and physiological changes should be tested. Using the sucrose preference test, the Morris water maze (rats) or Y-maze (mice) and measurements of locomotion in the home cage, depressive-like behaviour can be tested. Changes in body weight, sleep patterns and several other factors (like BDNF, neurogenesis or corticosterone) can be measured to define the physiological changes. These different tests are used to compare the different models. Based on the studies evaluated in this thesis, the unpredictable chronic mild stress model is the best one, if enough staff is available. If not, than the chronic social defeat stress model is the best alternative. The cytokine-induced model is the most promising model for the future, but it needs more work before it really can be used.

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelor's Thesis)
Degree programme:	Biology
Thesis type:	Bachelor's Thesis
Language:	English
Date Deposited:	15 Feb 2018 07:54
Last Modified:	15 Feb 2018 07:54
URI:	https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/11253

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