Place Memory Test
Objective: To assess place memory in rats by measuring exploratory preference for objects in novel locations versus locations where objects were previously encountered, as an index of hippocampal-dependent spatial memory
Gather these items before starting the experiment. Check off items as you prepare.
Equipment1
Not specified • Not specified • Not specified • Not specified
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Protocol Steps
Familiarization Phase
Rats are exposed to objects in specific locations and contexts to establish baseline familiarity
Note: This phase establishes which objects and locations are familiar to the rat
View evidence from paper
“between the familiarization and test phases”
Retention Interval
Time delay between familiarization and test phases
Note: Standard retention interval used in this protocol
View evidence from paper
“with a 5-min retention interval between the familiarization and test phases”
Place Memory Test Phase
Rats are presented with objects in novel locations versus familiar locations and their exploratory preference is measured
Note: Measures preference for exploring objects in novel locations as index of place memory
View evidence from paper
“Rats also show an exploratory preference for objects in locations where they have not previously encountered objects (an index of place memory)”