This study directly compares social investigation behavior between C57BL/6J mice and Sprague Dawley (SD) rats, commonly used in behavioral studies and as models for neuropathological conditions. Using novel experimental systems, researchers found marked differences in behavioral dynamics, suggesting stronger and faster induction of social motivation in SD rats. These differences, correlated with c-Fos expression in brain areas related to social motivation, were modified by competition with non-social rewards in a strain-specific manner. The findings highlight strain-specific differences in social behavior that should be considered when choosing model organisms.
Publisher
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
Published On
Nov 20, 2020
Authors
Shai Netser, Ana Meyer, Hen Magalnik, Asaph Zylbertal, Shani Haskal de la Zerda, Mayan Briller, Alexander Bizer, Valery Grinevich, Shlomo Wagner
Tags
social behavior
C57BL/6J mice
Sprague Dawley rats
neuropathological models
c-Fos expression
social motivation
behavioral dynamics
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