Role of Hippocampal Neurogenesis in Regulation of Feeding Behavior during Withdrawal Period in Socialized and Isolated Rats

Introduction: Hippocampal neurogenesis is essential for cognitive functions like memory and learning. However, other functions of hippocampus are not well understood. We aimed to study the role of hippocampus in regulation of feeding behavior during withdrawal period.

Materials and Methods: Forty eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four experimental groups: socialized, isolated, withdrawal isolated group and withdrawal socialized group. At the end of study, short - term memory, feeding behavior, blood glucose levels, corticosterone, copper, anxiety and neurogenesis were assessed.

Results: Socialization during withdrawal, increased food intake in rats. In isolated rats, short term memory was significantly impaired and neurogenesis was reduced. Blood glucose and anxiety levels were found to be higher in isolated rats. Socialization reduced corticosterone level and copper in serum in rats.

Conclusion: Socialization improves hippocampal neurogenesis which in turn regulates feeding behavior. Feeding behavior imparts regulated by hippocampus directly and also indirectly by co morbid psychiatric disorder.