GPR3 Receptor, a Novel Actor in the Emotional-Like Responses Gpr3 KO and Behavior
2009

GPR3 Receptor and Emotional Responses in Mice

Sample size: 34 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Valverde Olga, Célérier Evelyne, Baranyi Mária, Vanderhaeghen Pierre, Maldonado Rafael, Sperlagh Beata, Vassart Gilbert, Ledent Catherine

Primary Institution: Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain

Hypothesis

GPR3 could play a role in the control of emotional behavior responses.

Conclusion

GPR3 is important for modulating emotional responses and could be a target for treating emotional disorders.

Supporting Evidence

  • Gpr3−/− mice showed increased anxiety-like behavior in the open-field test.
  • Gpr3−/− mice displayed higher aggressiveness in the resident-intruder test.
  • Fluoxetine reduced immobility in Gpr3−/− mice in forced swim and tail suspension tests.
  • Monoamine levels were significantly altered in Gpr3−/− mice compared to wild-type.
  • GPR3 is expressed in brain areas related to stress and emotional behavior.

Takeaway

Mice without the GPR3 receptor are more anxious and aggressive, which might be linked to changes in brain chemicals that affect mood.

Methodology

The study involved generating Gpr3−/− mice and assessing their behavior in various tests related to anxiety and stress.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in behavioral assessments due to the blind conditions of the experiments.

Limitations

The study did not explore the long-term effects of GPR3 deletion on behavior.

Participant Demographics

Mice used were male, aged between 2 and 6 months.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Confidence Interval

95% CI

Statistical Significance

p<0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0004704

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