Can Rats Help With Depression?

In recent years, scientists have investigated the potential effects of rats on depression. In their search for the cause of this disorder and effective treatments, they have identified a common unifying principle. This principle appears to funnel through a single brain circuit, and changes in this circuit are linked to changes in depressive behavior. The findings have recently been published in the journal Science Express.

In one study, rats exposed to CUS (convulsion shock) were able to decrease their sucrose preference after 5 weeks. The sucrose preference test can be performed in rats to determine whether they are depressed. This study included a series of tests, including sucrose preference, forced-swim tests, and an open field test. The rats were tagged throughout the study and returned to cages after each test.

Rats form lifelong bonds with their owners and respond to their owners’ voice and sight. This bond is very strong, and rats enjoy spending time with humans. In addition, rats have a special gland called the Harderian gland behind their eyes, which secretes porphyrin when they are under stress. This porphyrin appears as a pink or red discharge on the skin of the rats. When a rat feels depressed, he or she will groom away the excess substance.

Rats are highly social and need human companionship. As such, they can act as emotional support animals, alleviating feelings of loneliness and bringing a smile to the faces of their owners. They may even be capable of cuddling with people, helping them relax in an emotional way.

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