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Novel Object Recognition Test for the Investigation of Learning and Memory in Mice
Published on: August 30, 2017
Exercise improves object recognition memory and induces BDNF expression and cell proliferation in cognitively
1Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland. ranya.bechara@pharm.ox.ac.uk
Behavioural Brain Research
|February 27, 2013
Summary
Both exercise and environmental enrichment enhance object recognition memory in rodents. However, only exercise significantly boosts brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression and cell division in the hippocampus.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Exercise and environmental enrichment are known to improve learning and neurogenesis in rodents.
- These interventions may act through neurotrophin-mediated pathways.
- Exercise is often a component of enrichment, making it difficult to isolate their individual effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the separate and combined effects of exercise and environmental enrichment on object recognition memory.
- To analyze associated changes in the dentate gyrus, focusing on BDNF expression and cell division.
Main Methods:
- Rodents were subjected to exercise, environmental enrichment, or a combination of both.
- Object recognition memory was assessed.
- BDNF mRNA expression and cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus were measured.
Main Results:
- Both exercise and enrichment independently improved object recognition memory.
- BDNF mRNA expression and cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus increased significantly only in the exercised group.
- Enrichment without exercise improved memory, suggesting BDNF- and neurogenesis-independent mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- Exercise is a key driver of neurotrophic and neurogenic effects in enrichment protocols.
- Environmental enrichment can enhance memory through pathways not involving BDNF upregulation or dentate gyrus neurogenesis.
