Y-maze IMPC_YMZ_001

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Purpose

The Y-maze is used to assess spontaneous alternation performance as an index of active retrograde working memory in rodents.

Experimental Design

 

Equipment

Y shaped arena with three arms of identical length at 120° angles.

Camera and computer with tracking software if using video tracking.

Procedure

  1. Transport animals to testing room at least 15 minutes prior to testing.
  2. Ensure lighting conditions are as desired and if using video tracking that the camera is working.
  3. Remove mouse from its cage and place in the start arm. Allow the mouse to explore the arena for 8 minutes.
  4. Either manually score the entries or use the automatic tracking while the mouse explores the arena for the duration of the test. Arm entry is defined differently depending on the scoring system.
    1. Manual: arm entry is scored when all four paws enter the new location.
    2. Automated tracking: arm entry is scored when the centre of the mouse enters the new location.
  5. Remove mouse from the arena and place back in home cage.
  6. Clean area with consistent disinfectant (i.e. ethanol/clidox) before testing next mouse.

Notes

Minimum of 5 arm entries are required for the ratios to be calculated to ensure the accuracy of the derived values.

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