Working memory in the aged Ts65Dn mouse, a model for Down syndrome

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Animal Models

Background:

• The Ts65Dn mouse model exhibits traits similar to Down syndrome.
• Down syndrome is linked to an increased risk of early-onset Alzheimer's disease.
• Working memory deficits are a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate working memory in aged Ts65Dn mice.
• To compare the cognitive performance of aged Ts65Dn mice with age-matched controls.
• To further characterize the Ts65Dn mouse as a model for Down syndrome phenotypes.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a titrating, delayed matching-to-position schedule of reinforcement.
• Trained two groups of mice: one starting at 3 months, another at 15 months of age.
• Monitored performance until 24 months of age for both groups.

Main Results:

• Initially, both Ts65Dn groups showed lower accuracy than controls.
• Accuracy differences between Ts65Dn and control mice diminished with continued training.
• Aged Ts65Dn mice did not exhibit a working memory deficit compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Aged Ts65Dn mice do not display a working memory deficit.
• The Ts65Dn mouse model may not fully replicate age-related cognitive decline seen in Alzheimer's disease.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the cognitive phenotype of the Ts65Dn mouse over its lifespan.