Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 9, 2026

Novel Object Recognition Test for the Investigation of Learning and Memory in Mice
Published on: August 30, 2017
Retrosplenial cortex 5-HT2A receptors critically contribute to recognition memory processing.
Beatriz Agustina Ortega1,2, Noelia V Weisstaub2,3, Cynthia Katche1,2
1Laboratorio de Memoria, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia "Prof. E. DeRobertis" (IBCN), Facultad de Medicina, CONICET-UBA, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the anterior retrosplenial cortex are crucial for object recognition memory. Blocking these receptors impaired memory formation and recall in rats, suggesting a role in cognitive function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- The anterior retrosplenial cortex (aRSC) integrates sensory information for memory.
- Serotonergic pathways, particularly involving 5-HT2A receptors (5-HT2ARs), are present in the aRSC.
- The precise role of aRSC 5-HT2ARs in recognition memory is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of 5-HT2ARs within the aRSC in object recognition (OR) memory.
- To determine if 5-HT2ARs modulate different phases of memory processing (acquisition, consolidation, retrieval).
Main Methods:
- Selective blockade of 5-HT2ARs in the aRSC of rats.
- Utilized the object recognition (OR) task to assess memory performance.
- Analyzed the effects of receptor blockade on memory acquisition, consolidation, and retrieval phases.
Main Results:
- Selective blockade of aRSC 5-HT2ARs significantly impaired OR memory.
- The blockade differentially affected memory acquisition, consolidation, and retrieval.
- This highlights a critical role for these receptors in specific memory processes.
Conclusions:
- 5-HT2ARs in the anterior retrosplenial cortex are essential modulators of recognition memory.
- Dysregulation of aRSC 5-HT2ARs may contribute to cognitive deficits in neurological disorders.
- Targeting these receptors could offer therapeutic potential for memory impairments.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Olfaction
The olfactory receptors are embedded in the cilia of the...
Association Areas of the Cortex
Prefrontal Association Area: This area is located in the frontal lobe and is involved in planning, decision-making, and moderating social behavior. It connects with primary motor areas,...
Somatosensory, Motor, and Association Cortex
Functional Brain Systems: Limbic System
Motor and Sensory Areas of the Cortex
Motor Areas
The motor areas located in the frontal lobe are central to controlling voluntary movements. This region is further subdivided into the primary motor cortex and the premotor cortex....
Functional Brain Systems: Reticular Formation
Within the reticular formation, there are several distinct nuclei that can be classified into three broad categories. The Raphe nuclei are located along the midline of the brainstem. They are primarily known for their role in synthesizing and releasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and circadian rhythms. The...

