Scientists at the University of Southern California have discovered that mice exhibit altruistic behavior towards their unconscious peers, displaying distinct and consistent actions such as grooming, biting, and even pulling out a tongue. In an experiment, researchers observed mice reacting with forceful actions when encountering a familiar social partner under anesthesia.
This unique behavior is reminiscent of human emergency responses, where individuals assess the situation, call for help, and perform CPR. The study suggests that the “helper mice” can improve the airway of their peers and lead to a faster recovery.
Neural imaging revealed the activation of oxytocin neuropeptides, which play a crucial role in social bonding. This discovery not only enhances our understanding of animal behavior but also highlights the importance of the oxytocin system in vertebrate species.
The study’s findings have significant implications for our comprehension of social behaviors across mammals and inform potential applications in fields such as veterinary medicine and social welfare programs.
Source: https://www.sci.news/biology/mice-first-aid-13732.html