Rat Casino

dotti34 · 13-03-2014, 07:48

I had made up my mind that I wouldn’t do this again – report on a cutting from our newspaper however tempted I might be (and there have been some very tempting ones that I have ignored) – but being female I am allowed to change my mind, and I really couldn’t resist sharing this one with you. So here goes.
Apparently scientists have set up a rat casino to study the brain chemistry behind compulsive gambling. In the study rats played for sugar pellets using slot machine-style devices. These machines featured three flashing lights and levers the rats could push with their paws.
However, when treated with medication that blocked their response to dopamine (apparently this is the brain chemical released during pleasurable experiences) the rats’ behaviour decreased.
I have a very funny picture in my head of rows of slot machines with little rats pushing the levers. Wonder what they did with the rats who couldn’t break the habit.
Mind you if it does eventually help the addicts who are very sad cases then it might all be worthwhile.

Turtle · 13-03-2014, 11:14

I enjoy your newspaper cuttings, Dotti, and especially your musings on them. The image you paint of the gambling-crazed rats is just too funny!

Less · 13-03-2014, 11:38

If they would like a human guinea-pig, I am prepared to risk my current situation in the noble cause of science so long as I would have unlimited funds provided to feed the resulting addiction.

Eric · 13-03-2014, 15:52

I think I'll hang on until they start testing for beer addiction.

... and then I'll volunteer. I just don't go for this using animals as test subjects.

... unless of course we're talking Danish pigs.

dotti34 · 13-03-2014, 20:55

Thank you for those kind words, Turtle. Maybe you shouldn't encourage me though - doesn't take much....oops!

Btw, I love the smileys, Less and Eric.