Development of seizures in the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus).

Studied the frequency of occurrence of seizures in 102 male and 126 female Mongolian gerbils. Frequency was a function of age but not sex. Seizures lst appeared at 2 mo. of age, and at 6 mo. their frequency was still increasing. The trigger appeared to be increased, possibly stressful, stimulus input. Early stimulation in the form of weekly tests, from 1 wk. to 4 mo. of age, delayed appearance and sharply curtailed occurrence of seizures. Results were due not only to habituation but also to the early stimulation which has been shown to affect emotional reactivity and general arousal level. It is suggested that gerbils might provide an effective model for the study of epilepsy in humans. (16 ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)