Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Morris Water Maze Test for Learning and Memory Deficits in Alzheimer's Disease Model Mice
07:02

Morris Water Maze Test for Learning and Memory Deficits in Alzheimer's Disease Model Mice

Published on: July 20, 2011

MDMA ("ecstasy") impairs learning in the Morris Water Maze and reduces hippocampal LTP in young rats

Alejandra Arias-Cavieres1, Carlos Rozas, Miguel Reyes-Parada

  • 1Department of Biology, Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, University of Santiago de Chile, Chile.

Neuroscience Letters
|December 23, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Low doses of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) impaired visuo-spatial learning and reduced hippocampal synaptic plasticity in rats. These effects occurred dose-dependently, suggesting postsynaptic plasticity impairment slows learning.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology
  • Psychopharmacology

Background:

  • 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is a recreational psychostimulant.
  • Understanding MDMA's effects on cognitive functions and neural plasticity is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of MDMA on visuo-spatial learning and synaptic plasticity in young rats.
  • To determine the dose-dependency of these effects.

Main Methods:

  • Rats received varying doses of MDMA (0.2 and 2mg/kg) twice daily for 6 days.
  • Visuo-spatial learning was assessed using the Morris Water Maze.
  • Long-term potentiation (LTP) was induced in hippocampal slices post-treatment.

Main Results:

  • MDMA significantly impaired visuo-spatial learning in a dose-dependent manner.
  • A significant reduction in hippocampal LTP was observed, also dose-dependently.
  • No significant changes in serotonin levels or paired-pulse facilitation were detected.

Conclusions:

  • Low, non-toxic doses of MDMA can impair cognitive functions, specifically visuo-spatial learning.
  • The observed learning deficits are linked to impaired postsynaptic plasticity in the hippocampus.
  • Prolonged administration of MDMA may negatively affect neural plasticity and learning processes.

More Related Videos

Analysis of Learning and Memory Ability in an Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Model using the Morris Water Maze07:07

Analysis of Learning and Memory Ability in an Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Model using the Morris Water Maze

Published on: October 29, 2019

Morris Water Maze Experiment04:45

Morris Water Maze Experiment

Published on: September 24, 2008

Related Concept Videos

Long-term Depression01:03

Long-term Depression

Long-term depression, or LTD, is one of the ways by which synaptic plasticity—changes in the strength of chemical synapses—can occur in the brain. LTD is the process of synaptic weakening that occurs over time between pre and postsynaptic neuronal connections. The synaptic weakening of LTD works in opposition to synaptic strengthening by long-term potentiation (LTP) and together are the main mechanisms that underlie learning and memory.
Calcium Ion Concentration Mechanism
If over time, all...
Long-term Depression01:05

Long-term Depression

Long-term depression, or LTD, is one of the ways by which synaptic plasticity—changes in the strength of chemical synapses—can occur in the brain. LTD is the process of synaptic weakening that occurs over time between pre and postsynaptic neuronal connections. The synaptic weakening of LTD works in opposition to synaptic strengthening by long-term potentiation (LTP) and together are the main mechanisms that underlie learning and memory.