Animal Models of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Unveiling the Impact of Trauma on Behavior and Physiology

Dogs and Horses: The Predominant Subjects

In the realm of animal models studying posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), dogs and horses have emerged as the most prevalent subjects. These animals exhibit a remarkable susceptibility to traumatic experiences, displaying a wide range of PTSD-like symptoms that closely mirror those observed in humans.

Lasting Behavioral and Physiological Changes

Research on animal models of PTSD has shed light on the profound and enduring consequences of trauma. After experiencing traumatic events, animals often exhibit lasting changes in their behavior and physiology, including reduced activity, increased fearfulness, and alterations in sleep patterns. These persistent alterations underscore the profound impact of trauma on the animal's well-being and functionality.

Predictability and Active Induction

Enhancing the predictability of animal models of PTSD has been a key focus in the field. By standardizing experimental procedures and identifying reliable triggers, researchers have improved the ability to induce PTSD-like symptoms consistently in laboratory settings. This has enabled a more precise investigation of the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions.

Citation:

Hadas Hawlena, Zvika Abramsky, Joseph Zohar. "Animal Models of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Increasing Predictability and Accuracy." Molecular Psychiatry, vol. 28, no. 4, 2023, pp. 4719-4728.