Working memory test in the genetically hypertensive rats of Koletsky type and in the normotensive rats of Wistar strain.

: The experiments were carried out in the adult normotensive rats of Wistar strain and in the genetically hypertensive rats which were developed by Koletsky; the experiments were performed in both sexes. For a testing of the working memory we have used the new session unique test elaborated by Ennaceur and Delacour. This test is based on the differential exploration of familiar and new objects. In the first trial rats are exposed to two identical objects (samples) and in the second trial, to two dissimilar objects, a familiar (the sample) and a new one. Between the trials one minute intertrial interval was used. The working memory test was used in two experimental arrangements. In the first one the animals two days before testing were allowed to explore the testing box (without any objects) two minutes each day. In the second arrangement no adaptation to the testing box was used. The optimal conditions for memory processes in the genetically hypertensive rats are attained after previous adaptation to the testing box. The optimal conditions for memory processes in the normotensive rats of Wistar strain were obtained when no adaptation to the testing box was used. Moreover, it was also found that the more intensive explorations of samples is registered in the first trial, the more intensive novelty preference in the second trial was obtained. The possible role of the level of behavioral activation in the working memory processes is discussed.