The functional networks of a novel environment: Neural activity mapping in awake unrestrained rats using positron emission tomography

ConclusionThese results suggest that the novel cage is a stressful environment that inhibits activity in brain regions associated with exploratory behavior. Patterns of inhibition in the novel cage also support the proposed rat default mode network, indicating that animals are more cognitively engaged in this environment. Additionally, these data support the unique capability of combining FDG ‐PET with psychopharmacology experiments to examine novelty seeking and brain activation in the context of decision making, risk taking, and cognitive function more generally, along with response to environmental or stress challenges.
Source: Brain and Behavior - Category: Neurology Authors: Tags: ORIGINAL RESEARCH Source Type: research