Analysis of Scratching Behavior in a Picryl Chloride Induced Atopic Dermatitis Model in Mice

To elucidate the actual state of scratching behavior of NC mice noted when PiCl-induced dermatitis occurs, the circadian rhythm in scratching behavior of this mouse model was examined, and the time when scratching behavior, which is useful to evaluate the severity of itch, occurs was assessed. A steroid drug, which has been confirmed to inhibit dermatitis from worsening, was used to examine whether or not, or how it inhibits scratching behavior in this mouse model. It became clear that scratching behavior increased in the animals with PiCl-induced dermatitis increase in the frequency of induction of dermatitis, and Prednisolone ointment significantly inhibited scratching behavior in the animals in which dermatitis had been induced with PiCl six times. In conclusion, it is strongly suggested that this mouse model is useful for development of therapeutic methods and novel medicinal drugs for atopic dermatitis.