Cortical Gene Response to Water Maze Training in Aged Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Park Sung-Soo, Stranahan Alexis M, Chadwick Wayne, Zhou Yu, Wang Liyun, Martin Bronwen, Becker Kevin G, Maudsley Stuart
Primary Institution: National Institute on Aging
Hypothesis
The study investigates how water maze training affects gene expression related to cognitive function in the cortex of aged mice.
Conclusion
Cortical gene transcription is responsive to learning in aged mice, indicating that cognitive stimulation can enhance gene expression related to memory.
Supporting Evidence
- Effective learners showed greater activation of pathways related to cognitive function.
- BDNF and Arc expression increased in proficient learners compared to swimmers.
- Learning induced significant changes in gene expression across multiple cortical regions.
Takeaway
When older mice learn to navigate a water maze, their brains change in ways that help them remember better.
Methodology
The study involved aged male C57BL/6 mice assigned to learning, swimming, or home cage groups, with gene expression analyzed post-training using microarray and in situ hybridization.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the selection of mice based on behavioral criteria for learning.
Limitations
The study focused only on aged male mice, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to other demographics.
Participant Demographics
Aged male C57BL/6 mice, approximately 20 months old.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.008
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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