Conformity-like behaviour in mice observing the freezing of other mice: a model of empathy.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Empathy refers to the ability to recognise and share emotions with others. Several research groups have recognised observational fear in mice as a useful behavioural model for assessing their ability to empathise. However, in these observation systems, it remains unclear whether the observer mouse truly recognises the movements of, and empathises with, the demonstrator mouse. We examined changes in the behaviour of an observer mouse when a demonstrator mouse was anaesthetised, when the demonstrator's activity was increased, and when the interval of electrical stimulation was altered. If mice exhibit an ability to empathise, then the observer should display empathic behaviour when the demonstrator experiences pain or discomfort under any circumstances.

Results

Rela

SUBMITTER: Ueno H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7195716 | biostudies-literature | 2020 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature