Effects of nutritional lithium deficiency on behavior in rats

To demonstrate whether nutritional lithium deficiency is associated with behavioral changes, male Sprague-Dawley rats were placed on a lithium-deficient diet (Li content <.01 ppm). A lithium-deprived group, receiving drinking water containing 31 μM NaCl, were compared to a control group receiving drinking water containing 31 μM LiCl. Growth and general appearance were the same in both groups. However, lithium-deficient animals demonstrated decreased aggression in social interactions with other rats and also in response to handling. The phase of wheel-running activity was delayed by 0.8 h and exhibited decreased amplitude (p<.05). Other behaviors, including acquisition and retention of a passive avoidance response, were unaffected by lithium deprivation. An erratum to this article is available at .