Learning about threats: the neural and behavioural response to predator-related cues in rodents

这个项目将研究老鼠在面对猫等捕食者的气味时所表现出的焦虑。这种焦虑可能与患有焦虑症（如恐惧症）的人所经历的焦虑非常相似。 通过研究这种焦虑的本质、产生这种焦虑的刺激的本质以及作为其基础的学习和神经过程，我们可以更好地理解人类的焦虑。该项目还旨在确定猫皮毛中具有驱鼠性能的新型化学物质。这类化学品可能在啮齿动物是害虫的家庭和农业环境中有很大的用途。

This project will investigate the anxiety displayed by rats when confronted with the odours of predators such as cats. This anxiety may be very similar to that experienced by humans who suffer from anxiety disorders such as phobias. By investigating the nature of this anxiety, the nature of the stimuli that produce it, and the learning and neural processes that underlie it we may better understand human anxiety. The project also aims to identify novel chemicals in the fur of cats that have rodent repellent properties. Such chemicals may be of great use in domestic and agricultural contexts where rodents are pests.