PUBLICATION

Successive and discrete spaced conditioning in active avoidance learning in young and aged zebrafish

Authors
Yang, P., Kajiwara, R., Tonoki, A., Itoh, M.
ID
ZDB-PUB-171019-24
Date
2017
Source
Neuroscience research   130: 1-7 (Journal)
Registered Authors
Itoh, Motoyuki
Keywords
Aging, Automated learning device, Learning, Zebrafish
MeSH Terms
  • Animals
  • Avoidance Learning*
  • Conditioning, Classical
  • Electronic Data Processing
  • Electroshock
  • Locomotion
  • Psychomotor Performance
  • Zebrafish
PubMed
29037586 Full text @ Neurosci. Res.
Abstract
We designed an automated device to study active avoidance learning abilities of zebrafish. Open source tools were used for the device control, statistical computing, and graphic outputs of data. Using the system, we developed active avoidance tests to examine the effects of trial spacing and aging on learning. Seven-month-old fish showed stronger avoidance behavior as measured by color preference index with discrete spaced training as compared to successive spaced training. Fifteen-month-old fish showed a similar trend, but with reduced cognitive abilities compared with 7-month-old fish. Further, in 7-month-old fish, an increase in learning ability during trials was observed with discrete, but not successive, spaced training. In contrast, 15-month-old fish did not show increase in learning ability during trials. Therefore, these data suggest that discrete spacing is more effective for learning than successive spacing, with the zebrafish active avoidance paradigm, and that the time course analysis of active avoidance using discrete spaced training is useful to detect age-related learning impairment.
Genes / Markers
Figures
Expression
Phenotype
Mutations / Transgenics
Human Disease / Model
Sequence Targeting Reagents
Fish
Antibodies
Orthology
Engineered Foreign Genes
Mapping