Training protocol for probabilistic Pavlovian conditioning in mice using an open-source head-fixed setup

High throughput, temporally controlled, reproducible quantitative behavioral assays are important for understanding the neural mechanisms underlying behavior. Here, we provide a step-by-step training protocol for a probabilistic Pavlovian conditioning task, where two auditory cues predict probabilistic outcomes with different contingencies. This protocol allows us to study the differential behavioral and neuronal correlates of expected and surprising outcomes. It has been tested in combination with chronic in vivo electrophysiological recordings and optogenetic manipulations in ChAT-Cre and PV-Cre mouse lines. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Hegedüs et al. (2021).