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Assessment of impulsivity using an automated, self-adjusting delay discounting procedure
Madison R Carr1, Yvar van Mourik1, Paula Gómez-Sotres1
1Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Behavioural Brain Research
|December 20, 2024
Summary
This study introduces an automated delay discounting task for rodents, enabling efficient data collection for studying impulsivity. The automated system shows promise for high-throughput research into cognitive control and related disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Delay discounting models cognitive control and impulsivity.
- Traditional methods require extensive training and experimenter oversight.
Purpose of the Study:
- To adapt and validate a self-adjusting delay discounting procedure in an automated CombiCage setup for rodents.
- To assess the impact of training parameters and pharmacological agents on delay discounting behavior.
Main Methods:
- Developed an automated, self-adjusting delay discounting task in a CombiCage.
- Trained rodents during their active phase, collecting data on reward preference and adjusted delay.
- Administered amphetamine and SCH23390 to evaluate pharmacological effects.
Main Results:
- Rodents displayed discounting behavior within two weeks, with stable performance by seven weeks.
- Lower consecutive choice criteria (ccc) enhanced task participation and session efficiency.
- Amphetamine altered reward preference and mean adjusted delay, while SCH23390 had no significant effect.
Conclusions:
- The automated procedure facilitates high-throughput delay discounting data acquisition.
- This method has potential for lifespan impulsivity research but may require adjustments for certain pharmacological studies.
