Adapt-A-Maze: An Open-Source Adaptable and Automated Rodent Behavior Maze System

Area of Science:

• Behavioral neuroscience
• Systems neuroscience
• Rodent research

Background:

• Mazes are essential tools in rodent behavior and systems neuroscience.
• Inflexible maze designs limit experimental paradigms and increase costs.
• Need for adaptable and scalable solutions in behavioral research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a flexible, scalable, and automated modular maze system.
• To overcome limitations of traditional fixed mazes in experimental design.
• To enhance efficiency, repeatability, and replicability in neuroscience research.

Main Methods:

• Development of an open-source, modular maze system named Adapt-A-Maze (AAM).
• Implementation of automation for reduced variability and increased throughput.
• Standardized componentry for enhanced experimental consistency.

Main Results:

• The AAM system allows for rapid changes in maze configurations.
• Automation reduces experimental parameter variability and increases throughput.
• Successful application across multiple labs and experimental designs in rats.

Conclusions:

• The Adapt-A-Maze system offers significant advantages over traditional mazes.
• Its flexibility and automation facilitate novel experimental paradigms.
• AAM enhances efficiency and reproducibility in behavior and systems neuroscience research.