Scientists have discovered a remarkable phenomenon in mice, where they exhibit “paramedic-like” behavior to revive unconscious companions. A recent study published in Science found that when a mouse is presented with an unresponsive peer, it will attempt to rescue them by pulling their tongue out of their mouth, thus enlarging the airway and allowing the patient to recover faster.
The researchers observed firing in the brain’s involuntary function area, as well as boosts in hormonal signals, which appeared critical to the paramedic-like activity. Additionally, the mice’s tongue-pulling technique was found to be successful in removing objects from anesthetized mice’s mouths, with a notable exception of objects placed in their rectum or genitals.
The study also identified an increase in oxytocin – a social bonding hormone – in the carers’ brains, suggesting that this behavior is linked to caring and empathy. Furthermore, researchers found that familiar companions were more likely to be rescued than strangers, indicating that the mice are taking into account aspects of the situation and identity when forming their response.
This research sheds light on our natural inclination to help others in need, which seems to run deep within our mammalian heritage. As neuroscientist Wenjian Sun notes, “The fact that the mice would continue to attempt rescues over five days of repetition suggest that the resuscitation events are unlikely just a side effect of curiosity.” This finding adds to the growing evidence that an impulse to help others in states of extreme distress is shared by many species.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/incredible-discovery-shows-mice-trying-to-revive-fallen-companions