Influência do ciclo estral sobre o comportamento no labirinto em cruz elevado em ratas nulíparas e primíparas submetidas ao estresse

Abstract

Previous studies with rodents have shown reproductive experience (pregnancy, childbirth and lactation), can alter the sensitivity to anxiety and stress. In this sense, a reduction in anxiety in the elevated plus-maze has already been observed in experienced females. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of stress in nulliparous and primiparous rats at various stages of the estrous cycle. Two groups of individuals will be generated, a group of primiparous women (n = 8; gestation + 21 days of lactation) and a group of nulliparous women (n = 8) matched by age. After obtaining the females, the experimental groups will be subjected to stress by containment for 25 minutes, followed by 5 minutes for rest, and soon after subjected to the behavioral assessment in the elevated plus maze for 5 min. The retest will be performed 24 hours after the initial test. The experimental procedures will be performed in 3 phases of the estrous cycle: proestrus, estrus and metestrus, in groups of different nulliparous and primiparous females (n = 48). This research project aims to continue previous studies in our laboratory about reproductive experience and its relationship with anxiety and stress.