Effects of changes in peripheral and cerebral glucose metabolism on locomotor activity, learning and memory in adult male rats

Abstract Interactions of glucose and cognitive function have been reported both in the presence of elevated arterial blood glucose levels and with decreased cerebral glucose metabolism. In order to test the peripheral vs. central effects of this phenomenon, we induced irreversible hyperglycemia and depression of cerebral glucose metabolism in separate designs by means of either intraperitoneal (i.p.) or intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of streptozotocin (STZ), which is known to damage insulin-producing cells. Behavioral functions, such as locomotor activity, learning, and memory, were investigated under these different conditions. IP treatment with STZ decreased locomotor activity and increased initial step-through latencies on the passive avoidance test. No effects of elevated arterial blood glucose levels on retention of passive avoidance learning checked at 24 h and 144 h after training were observed. I.c.v. treatment of STZ increased the rate of locomotor activity and impaired retention in the passive avoidance test at 24 h, without further forgetfulness at 144 h. This finding may indicate disturbed acquisition and/or consolidation of memory, which may remain impaired but at a constant level, without further deterioration. Enhanced motor activity and impaired acquisition of passive avoidance learning without further impairment have also been reported as a characteristical behavioral pattern after disruption of the cholinergic system. It is therefore postulated that the observed behavioral abnormalities consequent on an impairment of cerebral glucose metabolism may be suggestive of cholinergic dysfunction.