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
Objective: To assess spatial learning and memory performance through navigation and spatial probe testing
Protocol Steps
Pool setup
Set up a black cylindrical pool divided into four quadrants (I-IV) with a concealed circular platform placed 1 cm under water surface in quadrant I's center. 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 training
Conduct navigation phase testing with mice receiving 4 trials daily for 5 successive days with 1-hour intervals between trials. Record escape latency (time from entering water at varying start locations to finding the platform).
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”
Data analysis for navigation phase
Calculate the mean daily escape latency value from the four trials for analysis.
View evidence from paper
“The mean daily value from four trials was analyzed”
Spatial probe phase
On Day 6, remove the platform and release mice from the quadrant opposite the original platform site. Track their swimming path over 60 seconds.
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“On Day 6, the platform was withdrawn.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”
Spatial probe measurements
Quantify time spent in the target quadrant and platform crossings during the 60-second probe trial.
View evidence from paper
“time spent in the target quadrant and platform crossings were quantified”