Banca de DEFESA: Max Sarmet Moreira Smiderle Mello

Uma banca de DEFESA de DOUTORADO foi cadastrada pelo programa.
STUDENT : Max Sarmet Moreira Smiderle Mello
DATE: 14/11/2024
TIME: 09:00
LOCAL: On-line
TITLE:

The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) as an animal model for swallowing research: a cineradiographic analysis of feeding behavior and changes in the physiology of mastication and swallowing during healthy aging

KEY WORDS:

Callithrix; mastication; swallowing; healthy aging; animal model

PAGES: 125
BIG AREA: Outra
AREA: Multidisciplinar
SUMMARY:

INTRODUCTION: The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) stands out as a versatile animal model for biomedical research. The genetic and physiological similarities between marmosets and humans, coupled with their ease of laboratory management, make this species ideal for exploring the effects of aging on swallowing function, a process known as presbyphagia. Unlike studies in humans, where the influence of multiple factors affects the neurobiology of aging, the use of marmosets allows for greater control of variables, enabling a more precise characterization of the physiological changes associated with healthy aging. OBJECTIVE: To describe the characteristics of masticatory and swallowing physiology in healthy captive marmosets, and to elucidate how these functions transform with age. METHODS: Twenty-five marmosets (0-19 years old) were evaluated for mastication and swallowing functions through cineradiographic recordings. The animals were divided into the following age groups: infant (0-4 months), young (>1 year), old (>10 years), and very old (>14 years). For the experimental procedure, we used a microfocal Xray source apparatus and a beryllium fast-response image intensifier. Image analysis was performed using ImageJ software. RESULTS: In our analysis of 44 recordings, encompassing 80 feeding events and 784 visible swallows, we identified significant differences in the physiology of mastication and swallowing among the age groups. Older animals demonstrated a feeding pattern characterized by larger portions, faster ingestion rates, and fewer mastications and swallows per bolus, compared to adults and young individuals. Additionally, age-related anatomical changes were described. Esophageal retention was present in all individuals. CONCLUSION: The feeding physiology of marmosets demonstrated remarkable plasticity throughout life, adapting to age-related changes in a manner similar to that observed in humans. Older animals developed compensatory strategies to maintain feeding efficiency, even in the face of age-related anatomical and functional changes. Esophageal retention, present in all individuals, suggests an intrinsic physiological characteristic of the species. Cineradiography proved to be an indispensable tool for the non-invasive and detailed evaluation of swallowing in marmosets, ensuring animal welfare. The results obtained in this study consolidate the marmoset as a promising model for investigating the aging process and the mechanisms involved in swallowing. In addition to enriching our knowledge of the species, our findings open new perspectives for understanding the natural adaptations of the organism throughout life and may have relevant implications for human health in the near future.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
Externo ao Programa - 3437282 - ANDRE FERREIRA LEITE - nullExterno à Instituição - DANILO SIMONINI TEIXEIRA - UESC
Presidente - 1646309 - JORGE LUIS LOPES ZEREDO
Externa à Instituição - MARISTELA SAYURI INOUE-ARAI - TMDU-JP
Externo ao Programa - 2376346 - OTAVIO DE TOLEDO NOBREGA - null