[Animal Modeling] - Using Orthogonal Experiments to Optimize and Establish a Rat Conditional Fear Memory Model

  Objective: To optimize the optimal experimental parameters and search for the optimal experimental conditions for establishing a rat conditioned fear memory model using orthogonal experiments. Method: Using the principle of Pavlov's conditioned fear, a rat conditioned fear memory model was established; Using a 3-factor and 3-level orthogonal experimental design, the expression of fear memory under different parameter conditions was observed using the stiffness response time of rats 24 hours after model establishment as an indicator, and the optimal experimental conditions were determined. A conditional fear memory model was established under the optimal experimental conditions, and fear memory retention tests were performed after 24 hours, 1 week, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks

  Result: The intuitive analysis results indicate that the influencing ability of each factor is in the order of sound intensity=number of cycles>electric shock intensity; The results of the analysis of variance showed that the number of cycles had a significant impact on the experimental results (P<0.05), while="" the="" effects="" of="" sound="" intensity="" and="" electric="" shock="" were="" not="" significant="" p="">0.05). The optimal experimental conditions were determined to be: sound 75dB, electric shock 0.8mA, and 15 cycles. At 24 hours and 1 week of model establishment, rats maintained good fear memory, with significant differences compared to the control group (P<0.001 and P<0.05); After the second week, p=">0.05"

  Conclusion: This experiment identified the primary and secondary influencing factors of the rat conditioned fear memory model, optimized the experimental conditions, and provided a reference for the standardization, normalization, and subsequent research of the model