Deletion of the life span determinant p66Shc prevents age-dependent increases in emotionality and pain sensitivity in mice

Oxidative stress has been implicated in the aging process. Previous studies have determined that mice with a targeted mutation of the p66(Shc) gene show reduced oxidative stress and extended life span. This study is the first behavioral characterization of mice carrying a deletion of p66(Shc). Four-, 11- and 24-months-old homozygous knockout and wild-type mice of the 129Sv/Ev strain underwent a battery of behavioral tests. Locomotion and exploratory activity were tested in the open-field test, emotional reactivity was assessed in the elevated plus-maze, while nociception was evaluated by means of the hot-plate test (50 degrees C). In addition, social behavior was assessed in a social interaction test. Our results indicate that pain sensitivity and emotional behavior in wild-type mice increase with age. Deletion of the p66 gene results in an increase in pain threshold and reduced emotionality, differences with wild-type subjects becoming more pronounced with age. Thus reduced oxidative stress throughout the life span is able to prevent some behavioral effects of aging, particularly in response to painful or emotionally arousing stimuli. These data are discussed in relation to recent views, indicating new and complex interactions between oxidative stress and emotional stress.