Abstract
The cockroach has proven to be an excellent model for investigating the pharmacological effects of different substances on nervous system functionality. The increased vigilance and wakefulness associated with caffeine is primarily mediated by its interactions with monoamine neurotransmitters in addition to its role as an antagonist for adenosine receptors. In the case of alcohol, it is an agonist for the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which partly explains its sedative properties and disruptive effects on motor function. In this experiment, we will examine the influence of caffeine and alcohol on motor function in Blaberus Discoidalis by designing an enclosed running strip marked with distance units. Fifteen cockroaches (2 females, 13 males) will be administered intra-joint injections consisting of 40% ethanol (7ul), caffeine (10ul of a 1% solution), or a .7% saline solution (8ul) prior to being placed in the enclosure. Performance will be compared between conditions in order to assess potential differences in motor function as a consequence of drug administration.
Faculty Sponsors
Dr. Jaime Tartar
Project Type
Event
Location
Alvin Sherman Library
Start Date
4-12-2013 1:00 PM
End Date
4-12-2013 5:30 PM
The Influence of Alcohol and Caffeine on Cockroach Motor Function
Alvin Sherman Library
The cockroach has proven to be an excellent model for investigating the pharmacological effects of different substances on nervous system functionality. The increased vigilance and wakefulness associated with caffeine is primarily mediated by its interactions with monoamine neurotransmitters in addition to its role as an antagonist for adenosine receptors. In the case of alcohol, it is an agonist for the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which partly explains its sedative properties and disruptive effects on motor function. In this experiment, we will examine the influence of caffeine and alcohol on motor function in Blaberus Discoidalis by designing an enclosed running strip marked with distance units. Fifteen cockroaches (2 females, 13 males) will be administered intra-joint injections consisting of 40% ethanol (7ul), caffeine (10ul of a 1% solution), or a .7% saline solution (8ul) prior to being placed in the enclosure. Performance will be compared between conditions in order to assess potential differences in motor function as a consequence of drug administration.
