Effect of Repeated Application of Saline Solution by Gavage or Intraperitoneal Injection on Anxiety in Young Rats.

• Grant number: 23/11237-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: November 01, 2023
• End date: October 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine
• Principal Investigator: Orfa Yineth Galvis Alonso
• Grantee: Luana Beline Faria
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP). Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Econômico (São Paulo - Estado). São José do Rio Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The repeated application of drugs in rats that model chronic conditions, such as epilepsy, has as a challenge the anxiety that can be generated by the repetition of the procedures. This can alter the animals' behavior by interfering with the effect of drugs. In rats, the drugs can be applied in several ways, such as by gavage or intraperitoneal injection. Gavage consists of applying the solution to the stomach by means of a spherical tip cannula, introduced through the mouth. On the other hand, intraperitoneal injection is performed by perforating the abdominal wall of the right lower quadrant of the abdomen with a thin needle. The available literature in the area lacks information on the effect of the route of chronic drug application and of the comparison between the two routes, gavage and intraperitoneal injection, on the behavior of rats. Objective: To evaluate the effect of repeated application of saline, by gavage or intraperitoneally, on the anxiety of normal young rats. Methods: Male Wistar rats will be randomized into four groups (n=10 for each group): 1) Gavage Group (GG; n= 10): with application of the treatment (sterile saline solution 0.9%, every 12 hours, for seven days) by gavage, 2) Intraperitoneal Group (GI; n= 10): with application of treatment by intraperitoneal injection, 3) Control Group (CG; n= 10): manipulated without treatment application and 4) Naive Group (NG; n= 10): without manipulation. All animals will be evaluated in the open field and in the elevated cross maze for possible anxiety. The results will allow us to evaluate the route for chronic administration of solutions in young rats that is associated with lower induction of anxiety. The information obtained will contribute to refine the procedures of new studies, aiming at improving animal welfare.