Somatic And Behavioral Changes Associated With Difuse Transcranial Electrical Stimulation In Anaesthetized And Unanaesthetized Normal Wistar Rats

Abstract

Aims: The effects of diffuse transcranial electrical stimulation on somatic and behavioral changes in anaesthetized and unanaesthetized normal male and female Wister rats was studied.

Method: Diffuse transcranial electrical stimulation (0-25v, frequency 90Hz,pulse width 1ms) was administered via two electrodes clipped to the ear lobes of the rat.

Results: DTES causes apparent-irritability, apprehension, micturation, and piloerection and increase activity in unanaesthetised wistar rats at voltage below 10v. Tonic-clonic seizures were observed at voltages above 10v.

In anaesthetized normal wistar rats, DTES has no effects on the rats at voltages below 20v. At voltages 20v and above, tonic- clonic seizures were observed.

Conclusion: These results suggest that higher voltages are needed to induce seizures in anaesthetized rats than unanaesthetized wistar rats. Some of the response to diffuse transcranial electrical stimulation can be abolished or attenuated by administering anaesthetic.

Key words: DTES, Hypermotility, Anaesthesia, Urethane, Wistar rats.

Highland Medical Research Journal Vol.2(1) 2004: 33-36