Computer-assisted shock-reinforced Y-maze training: a method for studying spatial alternation behaviour.
Y-mazes are widely used for discrimination learning and spatial alternation tasks. We present here a computer-assisted Y-maze model for spatial alternation learning via footshock reinforcement. No intramaze cues are provided and handling between trials is no longer required. Pretraining application of scopolamine (1 mg kg-1) and D-AP5 (2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoate; 0.016 mg) clearly impairs acquisition and retention (tested 24 h after acquisition) of spatial alternation. These effects are not due to state-dependent changes caused by drug treatment. Similar results were reported by others in food-motivated spatial alternation tasks as well as spontaneous alternation paradigms. The data support our model as a useful tool for studying spatial alternation in the Y-maze.
Riedel
G
G
Federal Institute for Neurobiology, Department of Neurophysiology, Magdeburg, Germany.
Wetzel
W
W
Reymann
K G
KG
D015763:2-Amino-5-phosphonovalerate / Q000494:pharmacology; D000818:Animals; D001362:Avoidance Learning / Q000187:drug effects*; D003201:Computers; D004597:Electroshock; D018782:Maze Learning / Q000187:drug effects*; D051381:Rats; D012054:Reinforcement, Psychology; D012601:Scopolamine / Q000494:pharmacology; D013037:Spatial Behavior / Q000187:drug effects*
D015763:2-Amino-5-phosphonovalerate; D012601:Scopolamine