The function of anxiety/fear-related genes in animal models

Abstract

This study was designed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying anxiety and fear memory. Three animal models: elevated plus-maze, cat exposure test and fear conditioning apparatus, were employed. The expression of CCK2 receptor and 5-HT receptor subtypes were significantly different between high- and low-anxiety SD rats screened by the elevated plus maze. Two rat strains: SD and PVG hooded, showed different behavior patterns and CCK2 receptor expression when exposed to a cat. The four variations in CCK2 gene between these two rat strains were detected. Microarray studies detected many other anxiety/fear-related genes. The interaction between CCK and CRF systems was also investigated in C57BL/6J mice in elevated plus maze and fear conditioning apparatus.