Research on depressive behavior development in mice with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (DM1) is one of the most relevant chronic diseases of childhood today, worldwide, being triggered by an autoimmune attack on insulin-producing ²-pancreatic cells. Because of this, there is a demand for a better understanding of the disease and its various impacts on childhood and on the development of the carriers. DM1 has a direct impact on the body's nervous system, since glucose is the only source of energy for neurons, and its entry into cells is impossible due to a lack of insulin, making these cells unable to perform their basic activities, such as transmission nerve impulses, which have several impacts on the body. However, its possible behavioral impacts are still poorly studied. Individuals under the age of 18 have access only to replacement treatment with exogenous insulin, which reduces the risks of more serious complications of DM1. However, its administration can be a great challenge, especially in the case of children, as it is characterized by the chronic presentation of stressful events, and is often not effective. Thus, this project's main objective is to investigate the effects of exposure to moderate chronic stressors on the development of depressive behaviors in mice with DM1. For this, an experimental model of DM1 and an experimental model of depression called Chronic Mild Stress (CMS) will be used. A group of diabetic and non-diabetic animals will be subjected to a constant low-intensity stress regime, which can induce depressive behaviors, and their behavior will be compared. (AU)