Assessing Spatial Memory Impairment in a Mouse Model of Traumatic Brain Injury Using a Radial Water Tread Maze

Marcella M. Cline; Megan A. Ostlie; Chloe G. Cross; Gregory G. Garwin; Satoshi Minoshima; Donna J. Cross

doi:10.3791/55986

Evaluación del deterioro de la memoria espacial en un modelo de ratón de lesión cerebral traumáti...

JoVE Journal
Behavior

A subscription to JoVE is required to view this content. Sign in or start your free trial.

JoVE Journal Behavior

Assessing Spatial Memory Impairment in a Mouse Model of Traumatic Brain Injury Using a Radial Water Tread Maze

Evaluación del deterioro de la memoria espacial en un modelo de ratón de lesión cerebral traumática utilizando un laberinto radial

Full Text

7,569 Views

06:09 min

July 17, 2017

DOI: 10.3791/55986-v

Marcella M. Cline¹, Megan A. Ostlie², Chloe G. Cross³, Gregory G. Garwin², Satoshi Minoshima², Donna J. Cross²

¹Department of Radiology,University of Washington, ²Department of Radiology,University of Utah, ³Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC),VA Puget Sound

Please note that some of the translations on this page are AI generated. Click here for the English version.

Overview

This article presents a protocol for a mouse-specific cognitive test that does not involve swimming, aimed at assessing spatial memory in mouse models of traumatic brain injury. The method is particularly useful for evaluating cognition in mice with motor deficits or low motivation, where traditional swimming-based tests are impractical.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

Neuroscience
Cognitive Testing
Traumatic Brain Injury

Background

Traditional cognitive tests often require swimming, which may not be suitable for all mouse models.
This protocol allows for the assessment of cognition without the need for swimming.
It can be applied to various mouse models, including aged and transgenic mice.
The method aims to provide insights into cognitive differences in traumatic brain injury models.

Purpose of Study

To develop a cognitive test that is mouse-centric and does not require swimming.
To distinguish between cognitive performance in traumatic brain injury mice and sham controls.
To facilitate cognitive assessment in mouse models with motor impairments.

Methods Used

Acclimation of mice in their home cages prior to testing.
Utilization of a round maze with visual cues along the inner walls.
Assessment of spatial memory through a non-swimming task.
Comparison of performance between different mouse groups.

Main Results

The protocol successfully differentiates between cognitive abilities of injured and control mice.
It provides a reliable measure of spatial memory in various mouse models.
The method is effective for mice that typically perform poorly in swimming tests.
Results indicate potential for broader applications in cognitive research.

Conclusions

This non-swimming cognitive test is a valuable tool for neuroscience research.
It enhances the ability to study cognition in mouse models of traumatic brain injury.
The protocol can be adapted for various experimental conditions and mouse strains.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main advantage of this cognitive test?

The main advantage is that it does not require swimming, making it suitable for mice with motor deficits.

Can this method be used for aged mice?

Yes, the protocol is designed to accommodate aged mice and those with cognitive impairments.

How does this test compare to the Morris Water Maze?

Unlike the Morris Water Maze, this test does not involve swimming, making it more accessible for certain mouse models.

What types of visual cues are used in the maze?

The maze features visual cues along the inner walls to assist mice in navigation and memory tasks.

Is this protocol applicable to transgenic mice?

Yes, it is suitable for transgenic mice that may struggle with traditional swimming-based tests.

What are the implications of this research?

This research provides insights into cognitive function in traumatic brain injury models, potentially guiding future studies.

Aquí presentamos un protocolo para una prueba específica de ratón de la cognición que no requiere nadar. Esta prueba puede utilizarse para distinguir con éxito los ratones de lesión cerebral traumática inducida por impacto cortical controlado de los controles simulados.

El objetivo general de este protocolo de laberinto de pisada de agua radial es probar la memoria espacial en un modelo de ratón de lesión cerebral traumática utilizando una tarea cognitiva centrada en el ratón que no requiere nadar. Este método puede ser especialmente útil para evaluar la cognición en modelos de ratón, donde los déficits motores o la falta de motivación hacen que los protocolos de pruebas cognitivas basados en la natación, como el laberinto acuático de Morris, sean poco prácticos. Aunque este método podría proporcionar información sobre las diferencias de grupo y la cognición en un modelo de impacto cortical controlado de lesión cerebral traumática en ratones, también puede ser útil para medir la cognición en modelos de ratones envejecidos y transgénicos que se sabe que tienen un rendimiento deficiente en las pruebas basadas en la natación.

En todos los días de prueba, realice los siguientes pasos preparatorios. Primero, permita que los ratones se aclimaten a la sala de pruebas, mientras están en sus jaulas domésticas durante al menos 30 minutos. El laberinto redondo cuenta con señales visuales a lo largo de las paredes interiores.

View the full transcript and gain access to thousands of scientific videos

Explore More Videos

Comportamiento Número 125 Lesión cerebral traumática pruebas cognitivas pruebas de comportamiento laberinto de agua impacto cortical controlado Neurociencia modelo de ratón ratones