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A Fully Automated Rodent Conditioning Protocol for Sensorimotor Integration and Cognitive Control Experiments
Published on: April 15, 2014
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Automated Operant Conditioning in the Mouse Home Cage.
Nikolas A Francis1, Patrick O Kanold1
1Department of Biology, University of MarylandCollege Park, MD, USA; A. James Clark School of Engineering, Institute for Systems Research, University of MarylandCollege Park, MD, USA.
Frontiers in Neural Circuits
|March 17, 2017
Summary
Researchers developed the Psibox, a low-cost automated system for training mice in operant conditioning tasks. This scalable system enables high-throughput behavioral screening for auditory processing and other cognitive functions in mice.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Animal Behavior
- Genetics
Background:
- Mice are valuable models for studying neurophysiology due to advances in neuroimaging and genetics.
- Behavioral screening in mice is crucial for understanding sensation, cognition, and locomotion.
- Operant conditioning offers more accurate auditory processing measurements than reflex-based assays like the acoustic startle response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a cost-effective and scalable automated operant conditioning system for mice.
- To enable high-throughput behavioral testing within home cages using positive reinforcement.
- To provide a tool for studying neural plasticity and rodent models of mental disorders.
Main Methods:
- Development of the Psibox system using low-cost components.
- Design of the Psibox to fit standard commercial wire-top cages.
- Implementation of automated operant conditioning tasks with positive reinforcement.
Main Results:
- Mice trained in groups learned to accurately detect sounds within two weeks.
- Individually housed mice also demonstrated good task performance.
- The Psibox system supports independent training for large numbers of mice.
Conclusions:
- The Psibox is a scalable, cost-effective solution for automated operant conditioning in mice.
- This system facilitates high-throughput testing of sensory, motor, and cognitive skills.
- It provides a valuable resource for diverse neuroscience research, including plasticity and disease models.
