Source Paper
Hydrogen‐Mediated Activation of the Nrf2/HO‐1 Signaling Pathway Improves Cognitive Impairment in Sleep‐Deprived Mice
Xiao Q, Zhou S, Tang B, Zhu Y
CNS Neurosci Ther • 2026
Morris Water Maze Test
Objective: To assess spatial learning and memory performance in mice using navigation and spatial probe tasks
Protocol Steps
Pool setup
Set up a black cylindrical pool divided into four quadrants (I-IV) with a concealed circular platform placed in quadrant I's center, 1 cm under the water surface. Position fixed visual cues around the pool and render water opaque with white dye.
View evidence from paper
“The tank was notionally separated into four quadrants (I–IV). A concealed circular platform (10 cm diameter) was placed 1 cm under the water surface in quadrant I's center”
Navigation phase
Conduct navigation training for 5 successive days with 4 trials daily and 1-hour intervals between trials. Record escape latency (time from entering water at varying start locations to finding the platform). Analyze the mean daily value from four trials.
View evidence from paper
“Mice received 4 trials daily for 5 successive days (1‐h intervals between trials). Escape latency (time from entering water at varying start locations to finding the platform) was recorded”
Spatial probe phase
On Day 6, withdraw the platform and release mice from the quadrant opposite the original platform site. Track their swimming path over 60 seconds and quantify time spent in the target quadrant and platform crossings.
View evidence from paper
“On Day 6, the platform was withdrawn. Mice were released from the quadrant opposite the original platform site. Their swimming path over 60 s was tracked”