Neonatal repetitive pain in rats leads to impaired spatial learning and dysregulated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function in later life

• DOI: 10.1038/srep39159
• Publication Date: 2016-12-14T10:07:30Z
• Authors: Mengying Chen; Dongqing Xia; Cuiting Min; Xiaoke Zhao; Yinhua Chen; Li Liu; Xiaonan Li
• Keywords: Prepuberty; Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis; Maternal deprivation

Abstract Preterm birth is a major health issue. As part of their life-saving care, most preterm infants require hospitalization and are inevitably exposed to repetitive skin-breaking procedures. The long-term effects neonatal pain on cognitive emotional behaviors involving hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function in young adult rats unknown. From P8 P85, mechanical hypersensitivity the bilateral hindpaws was observed Needle group ( P < 0.001). Compared with Tactile group, took longer find platform P30 than P29 = 0.03), decreased number original site crossings during probe trial Morris water maze test 0.026). Moreover, spent more time distances central area Open-field test, both prepubertal 0.05). HPA differed from 0.05), stress responsiveness prepuberty puberty 0.05) increased adulthood This study indicates that occurs critical period may cause severe consequences, behavioral neuroendocrine disturbances developing through life.