Short Wave These Rats Can Drive. What's Happening In Their Brains?
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Dec 3, 2024 
Join Dr. Kelly Lambert, a behavioral neuroscience professor at the University of Richmond, as she shares her groundbreaking research on rats driving miniature cars. Discover why these furry friends prefer hitting the road to snacking on Froot Loops. Kelly explores how anticipation and decision-making are intertwined in the brains of rats, revealing insights into dopamine release. Plus, dive into the concept of 'behavior-ceuticals' and learn how actions can shift brain chemistry, suggesting that optimism might be beneficial for both rats and humans!
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Rats' Enthusiasm for Driving
- During COVID lockdown, Kelly Lambert's rats showed excitement for driving.
- This provided comfort and a sense of acceptance during isolation.
Driving as a Reward
- Rats demonstrate a preference for driving over walking to obtain treats.
- This suggests that the act of driving itself is rewarding and increases anticipation.
Anticipation and Dopamine
- The anticipation of a reward, like driving to treats, releases dopamine in rats.
- This suggests that anticipation itself can be rewarding, separate from the reward.