Increased Anxiety in Aging Mice is Associated with Cognitive Decline and Decreased Wheel-running

Abstract

This research project explores the relationship between anxiety and aging in mice, focusing on various physiological and behavioral parameters. The study used open field tests, cognitive function assessments, grip strength and rotation tests, and voluntary wheel running observations to examine anxiety levels and their association with memory and motor function in two strains (C57BL/6 and CB6F1) of male mice at increasing ages. Results indicated that older mice, particularly the CB6F1 strain, showed more anxiety as measured by the open field test. Higher levels of anxiety were associated with decreased cognitive performance as evidenced by impaired long-term memory, and reduced running distance. No significant association was found with grip strength or rotational performance. This study contributes to an understanding of anxiety and its consequences in aging and provides insights into potential therapeutic interventions for aging.