Rats drive cars | Relieves anxiety | University of Richmond

Rat drives the plastic car.

Researchers at the University of Richmond in Virginia trained lab rats to drive the plastic cars, which they say proves that the brains of the rat are capable of performing complicated tasks. And, surprisingly, Driving reduced the rats’ stress. The results of this research could help scientists understand anxiety and depression in humans.

Since years, The rat is an appropriate model for test experiments equalling the human brain in its areas and neurochemicals. The research has been conducted to train rats to drive so as to study how brains interact with environments to maintain optimal mental health.

Lambert and her research colleagues created small cars made out of the plastic containers. The cars’ floors were made of aluminum, and they had three paw-gripping copper bars that acted as steering wheels.

When the rats grasped the copper bars with their paws, it created an electrical current that powered the car and moved it in different directions, depending on which bar the rats were holding on to. Surprisingly after a few turns, the rat led the car to the froot loops (food).

While testing the rat's stress hormones after driving, scientist knew that it was cool and less anxious. The rat's poop test showed an increase in DHEA Hormone which prevents stress.

The results of the study could impact future research on how Parkinson’s disease alters motor skills and spatial function in humans.