A review on animal models for screening potential anti-stress agents

Abstract

Stress is a state of threatened homeostasis that produces different physiological as well as pathological changes depending on severity, type and duration of stress. The animal models are pivotal for understanding the pathophysiology of stress-induced behavioral alterations and development of effective therapy for its optimal management. A battery of models has been developed to simulate the clinical pain conditions with diverse etiology. An ideal animal model should be able to reproduce each of the aspects of stress response and should be able to mimic the natural progression of the disease. The present review describes the different types of acute and chronic stress models including immersion in cold water with no escape, cold environment isolation, immobilization/restraint-induced stress, cold-water restraint stress, electric foot shock-induced stress, forced swimming-induced stress, food-deprived activity stress, neonatal isolation-induced stress, predatory stress, day-night light change-induced stress, noise-induced stress, model of post-traumatic stress disorder and chronic unpredictable stress models.

Chronic stress impacts the cardiovascular system: animal models and clinical outcomes

“…This test also has several characteristics such as uncontrollability, unpredictability, and adequate intensity, making it useful in the study of posttraumatic stress disorders (79). Even though the predatory test is considered a model of acute stress response (156), habituation to predator exposure can occur and this may be related to the long-lasting anxiogenic behaviors that have been reported (79). Diazepam, buspirone, substance P, and the selective serotonin 5-HT A1 receptor antagonist (WAY 100635) all reduced fear-induced reactions and increased exploration behaviors (21,74).…”

Investigations into mild electric foot shock stress-induced cognitive enhancement: possible role of angiotensin neuropeptides

“…In this protocol, a mild current (with intensity less than 1 mA) was applied, just sufficient to produce behavioral changes in animals such as jumping or squeaking. 19,20 The electric foot shock model has been employed for inducing acute stress of variable degrees in rodents including mice. 21 The MWM test employed in the present study is one of the most widely accepted models to evaluate learning and memory of animals, particularly spatial memory.…”

Effect of Various Physical Stress Models on Serum Cortisol Level in Wistar Rats

“…Rat was placed in water filled cylinder and allowed to step on moving wheel for survival. Rat was judged to be immobile wherever it remained floating in water in a slightly upright position, making no movements except trying to keep its head above water surface [8].…”

“…restraint stress test: Animals were isolated once for 3 hours in a restraint transparent tube measuring 21cm x 7 cm [8].…”