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Emotional and Stress Response Analysis
Fish and other aquatic animals are affected by a wide variety of stressors because their homeostasis mechanisms are highly dependent on the state of their surroundings. Different species exhibit different behavioral and physiological responses to stress and emotional stimuli. BioVenic provides aquatic animal emotional and stress response analysis services for aquaculture, food safety, and ecosystem research.
Although it is widely believed that aquatic animals experience a range of emotional and stress responses, they do not express them in the same way as terrestrial vertebrates. Stress triggered by environmental changes or human activity can lead to physiological changes such as increased cortisol levels and behavioral changes, including reduced activity and decreased appetite. While defining "emotion" is still complicated, there is evidence that fish experience fear, anxiety, and even pleasure. Common stressors include physical and mental trauma related to capture, transport, handling and crowding, malnutrition, changes in water temperature, oxygen and salinity, and peripheral effects of exposure to pollutants or infectious diseases.
Fig. 1 Overview of stress responses in fish. (Danio rerio). (Virtanen MI. et al., 2023)
Analyzing emotional and stress responses in aquatic animals provides a valuable tool for disease research and drug development, particularly for disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In addition, the emotional and stress response affects aquatic animals' well-being and survival. Understanding these responses is essential for responsible aquaculture and conservation.
Detecting emotional and stress responses in aquatic animals requires a multifaceted approach that combines behavioral observations, physiological measurements, and molecular analysis. Since these animals can't express their feelings verbally, BioVenic relies on interpreting subtle changes in their behavior and physiology. In addition, aquatic animal models have been widely used to study the neurobiology of stress.
Cortisol Levels
Cortisol is a stress hormone, measured in blood, plasma, or other tissues. Non-invasive methods include measuring cortisol in water or stool.
Glucose and Lactate Levels
Stress causes changes in blood sugar and lactate levels reflecting metabolic changes associated with the fight or flight response.
Neurotransmitter Levels
Neurotransmitters play an important role in regulating mood and behavior. Measuring levels of neurotransmitters in brain tissue can provide information about emotional states.
Heart and Respiratory Rate
Changes in heart rate and respiratory rate are indicators of stress or excitement. These can be measured with implanted or non-invasive devices.
Immune Function
Chronic stress suppresses immune function, making animals more susceptible to disease. Measuring immune parameters, such as white blood cell counts, can give an idea of stress levels.
Proteomics
Analyzing protein expression patterns reveals changes in cellular processes associated with stress and emotional responses.
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By combining behavioral observations, physiological measurements, and molecular analysis, BioVenic provides high-quality emotional and stress response analysis services for aquatic animals, a powerful platform for understanding, diagnosing, and treating human emotional disorders, and developing effective conservation and management strategies. For any inquiries or needs, please get in touch with us today.
Reference
Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.