Abstract # 3134 Prenatal LPS increases the switch selection of maternal behavior to predatory behavior in rats independently of sickness behavior

Abstract

Previous study by our group showed that acute lipopolysaccharide (LPS) switches the selection of maternal behavior to predatory behavior in rats. We studied now the effects of a challenged dose of LPS on behavioral selection of F1 lactating rats prenatally exposed to LPS. Female rats prenatally exposed to LPS (on gestation day 9.5) received a LPS challenge on the lactation day 5–6. Maternal behavior, predatory behavior to roaches and maternal general activity were studied. We also evaluated plasmatic TNF-alpha levels. Prenatal LPS (1) did not affect any of the maternal behavior parameters; (2) slightly increased predatory behavior, i.e., it increased foraging; (3) did not affect any of the general activity parameters; (4) did not affect TNF-alpha levels. Prenatal + postnatal LPS (1) impaired maternal behavior, i.e., reduced pup contact, pup grouping, and pup grooming; (2) increased predatory behavior, i.e., it increased insect contact and foraging; (3) impaired general activity, i.e., it decreased exploratory behavior and increased immobility; (4) increased TNF-alpha levels. Thus, prenatal + postnatal LPS induced sickness behavior because it decreased general activity and increased TNF-alpha levels. Independently of sickness behavior, prenatal LPS increased the switch selection of maternal behavior to predatory behavior in rats.