title: Facilitation of generalization performances in spatial learning problems by posttrial stimulation of the mesencephalic reticular formation.
abstract: The effects of low posttrial stimulation of the mesenphalic reticular formation (MRF) on spatial learning problems were studied in two consecutive stages. First, the performances of stimulated (S) and no-stimulated (NS) subjects were assessed in a reconvergent three-arm maze. Secondly, the same animals were tested in a generalization paradigm, since they had to solve a similar task in a radial four-arm maze, each group being divided into newly stimulated (S-S, NS-S) or no-stimulated (S-NS, NS-NS) subjects. In the first experiment, no differences were found between the acquisition processes of groups S and NS. Conversely, in the second experiment, previously stimulated animals (S-S and S-NS) showed better generalization of the experimental rule. The results are discussed in terms of preservation of the neural activity after the early MRF stimulation. From a functional point of view, our data indicate that an enhancement of the neural activity during acquisition facilitates not only a high accessibility of memories concerning the experimental rule in a subsequent similar situation but also the capability to apply a previously elaborated response system in a more complex situation.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001143:Arousal / Q000502:physiology; D003216:Conditioning, Operant / Q000502:physiology; D004193:Discrimination Learning / Q000502:physiology; D004558:Electric Stimulation; D005794:Generalization, Response / Q000502:physiology*; D008297:Male; D011939:Mental Recall / Q000502:physiology; D008636:Mesencephalon / Q000502:physiology*; D009949:Orientation / Q000502:physiology*; D051381:Rats; D011919:Rats, Inbred Strains; D012154:Reticular Formation / Q000502:physiology*; D013028:Space Perception / Q000502:physiology*