title: A methodological improvement for experimental control and blood sampling in rats.
abstract: We have developed an apparatus and techniques that permit repeated, undisturbed blood sampling and concurrent assessment of activity in rats. The apparatus also allows experimental control of conditioning stimuli and contingencies without the need to transfer the rat to a separate chamber. In the experimental apparatus, body weights remain stable at approximately 90% of the original body weight. Plasma corticosterone and prolactin levels in the apparatus are comparable to levels obtained in undisturbed free-ranging rats and remain at basal levels for the 7 day duration of this experiment. Additionally, circadian activity rhythms in the apparatus are similar to those seen in free-ranging rats. This technique has potential applications for investigators who need to be able to control shock delivery, monitor activity, and sample blood without disturbing rats.
authors.affiliation: Primate-Neurobehavioral Unit, VA Medical Center, East Orange, NJ 07019.
authors.forename: D L
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Pitman
authors.forename: B H
authors.initials: BH
authors.lastname: Natelson
authors.forename: J B
authors.initials: JB
authors.lastname: Pitman
authors.forename: A M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Schilling
authors.forename: J E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Ottenweller
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001143:Arousal / Q000502:physiology*; D001800:Blood Specimen Collection / Q000295:instrumentation*; D001835:Body Weight; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling; D002940:Circadian Rhythm; D003345:Corticosterone / Q000097:blood*; D004326:Drinking; D004435:Eating; D004597:Electroshock; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity / Q000502:physiology; D011388:Prolactin / Q000097:blood*; D051381:Rats; D011919:Rats, Inbred Strains
chemical_list: D011388:Prolactin; D003345:Corticosterone