Comparison of different rat models of acute stress response

  Objective: To compare the changes of stress-related indicators in three acute stress response animal models, and to explore the establishment of a relatively appropriate acute stress response model.

   Method: 40 healthy adult male SD rats were randomly divided into normal group (Ⅰ), tail docking group (Ⅱ), burn group (Ⅲ) and amputation group (Ⅳ), each with 10 rats. The normal group was left untreated. The tail-dangling group was transected at the tail shaft (between the S3 and S4 spinal nerves) near the end of the tail. The burn group was made into a 30% body surface area III degree scald model, and the left lower limb amputation was regarded as severe in the amputation group. Traumatic stress. Enzyme-linked immunoassay was used to detect the levels of serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone (CORT) in each group of rats, and the expression level of c-fos protein in the hypothalamus was detected by immunohistochemistry.

   Results: Compared with group I, ACTH and CORT levels in groups II, III, and IV increased (P<0.05), and the expression of c-fos protein increased significantly (P<0.05). Compared with group Ⅲ, the levels of ACTH, CORT and c-fos protein expression were higher in groups Ⅱ and Ⅳ (P<0.05); there="" was="" no="" statistically="" significant="" difference="" in="" indicators="" between="" group="" ii="" and="" iv="" p="">0.05). Conclusion: The acute stress response model made by cutting the low-position tail stem has the characteristics of simple operation steps, more consistent injury degree, and obvious stress effect. It can objectively reflect the stress response of human beings in sudden accidents. Ideal way to model acute stress response.