1
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Lee SA. Navigational roots of spatial and temporal memory structure. Anim Cogn 2023; 26:87-95. [PMID: 36480071 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-022-01726-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Our minds are constantly in transit, from the present to the past to the future, across places we have and have not directly experienced. Nevertheless, memories of our mental time travel are not organized continuously and are adaptively chunked into contexts and episodes. In this paper, I will review evidence that suggests that spatial boundary representations play a critical role in providing structure to both our spatial and temporal memories. I will illustrate the intimate connection between hippocampal spatial mapping and temporal sequencing of episodic memory to propose that high-level cognitive processes like mental time travel and conceptual mapping are rooted in basic navigational mechanisms that we humans and nonhuman animals share. Our neuroscientific understanding of hippocampal function across species may provide new insight into the origins of even the most uniquely human cognitive abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Ah Lee
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Seoul National University, Gwanak-Ro 1, Gwanak-Gu, Seoul, 08826, Korea.
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2
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Montalbán-Loro R, Lassi G, Lozano-Ureña A, Perez-Villalba A, Jiménez-Villalba E, Charalambous M, Vallortigara G, Horner AE, Saksida LM, Bussey TJ, Trejo JL, Tucci V, Ferguson-Smith AC, Ferrón SR. Dlk1 dosage regulates hippocampal neurogenesis and cognition. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2015505118. [PMID: 33712542 PMCID: PMC7980393 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2015505118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurogenesis in the adult brain gives rise to functional neurons, which integrate into neuronal circuits and modulate neural plasticity. Sustained neurogenesis throughout life occurs in the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the dentate gyrus in the hippocampus and is hypothesized to be involved in behavioral/cognitive processes such as memory and in diseases. Genomic imprinting is of critical importance to brain development and normal behavior, and exemplifies how epigenetic states regulate genome function and gene dosage. While most genes are expressed from both alleles, imprinted genes are usually expressed from either the maternally or the paternally inherited chromosome. Here, we show that in contrast to its canonical imprinting in nonneurogenic regions, Delta-like homolog 1 (Dlk1) is expressed biallelically in the SGZ, and both parental alleles are required for stem cell behavior and normal adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus. To evaluate the effects of maternally, paternally, and biallelically inherited mutations within the Dlk1 gene in specific behavioral domains, we subjected Dlk1-mutant mice to a battery of tests that dissociate and evaluate the effects of Dlk1 dosage on spatial learning ability and on anxiety traits. Importantly, reduction in Dlk1 levels triggers specific cognitive abnormalities that affect aspects of discriminating differences in environmental stimuli, emphasizing the importance of selective absence of imprinting in this neurogenic niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Montalbán-Loro
- ERI Biotecmed-Departamento de Biología Celular, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia,Spain
| | - Glenda Lassi
- Genetics and Epigenetics of Behaviour (GEB) Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
- Translational Science and Experimental Medicine Research and Early Development, Respiratory and Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AA, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Lozano-Ureña
- ERI Biotecmed-Departamento de Biología Celular, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia,Spain
| | - Ana Perez-Villalba
- ERI Biotecmed-Departamento de Biología Celular, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia,Spain
- Faculty of Psychology, Laboratory of Animal Behavior Phenotype (LABP), Universidad Católica de Valencia, 46100 Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Marika Charalambous
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, United Kingdom
| | | | - Alexa E Horner
- Synome Ltd, Babraham, Cambridge CB22 3AT, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa M Saksida
- Department of Psychology, Medical Research Council and Wellcome Trust Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EB, United Kingdom
- Molecular Medicine Research Laboratories, Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5K8, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- The Brain and Mind Institute, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Timothy J Bussey
- Department of Psychology, Medical Research Council and Wellcome Trust Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EB, United Kingdom
- Molecular Medicine Research Laboratories, Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5K8, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- The Brain and Mind Institute, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - José Luis Trejo
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Cajal Institute, The Spanish National Research Council, Madrid 28002, Spain
| | - Valter Tucci
- Genetics and Epigenetics of Behaviour (GEB) Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | | | - Sacri R Ferrón
- ERI Biotecmed-Departamento de Biología Celular, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia,Spain;
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3
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Parks EE, Logan S, Yeganeh A, Farley JA, Owen DB, Sonntag WE. Interleukin 6 reduces allopregnanolone synthesis in the brain and contributes to age-related cognitive decline in mice. J Lipid Res 2020; 61:1308-1319. [PMID: 32669383 PMCID: PMC7529050 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.ra119000479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive decline with age is a harmful process that can reduce quality of life. Multiple factors have been established to contribute to cognitive decline, but the overall etiology remains unknown. Here, we hypothesized that cognitive dysfunction is mediated, in part, by increased levels of inflammatory cytokines that alter allopregnanolone (AlloP) levels, an important neurosteroid in the brain. We assessed the levels and regulation of AlloP and the effects of AlloP supplementation on cognitive function in 4-month-old and 24-month-old male C57BL/6 mice. With age, the expression of enzymes involved in the AlloP synthetic pathway was decreased and corticosterone (CORT) synthesis increased. Supplementation of AlloP improved cognitive function. Interestingly, interleukin 6 (IL-6) infusion in young animals significantly reduced the production of AlloP compared with controls. It is notable that inhibition of IL-6 with its natural inhibitor, soluble membrane glycoprotein 130, significantly improved spatial memory in aged mice. These findings were supported by in vitro experiments in primary murine astrocyte cultures, indicating that IL-6 decreases production of AlloP and increases CORT levels. Our results indicate that age-related increases in IL-6 levels reduce progesterone substrate availability, resulting in a decline in AlloP levels and an increase in CORT. Furthermore, our results indicate that AlloP is a critical link between inflammatory cytokines and the age-related decline in cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen E Parks
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Sreemathi Logan
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Allied Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Alexander Yeganeh
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Julie A Farley
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Daniel B Owen
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - William E Sonntag
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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4
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Reorientation by features and geometry: Effects of healthy and degenerative age-related cognitive decline. Learn Behav 2020; 48:124-134. [PMID: 31916194 DOI: 10.3758/s13420-019-00401-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The ability to orient is critical for mobile species. Two visual cues, geometry (e.g., distance and direction) and features (e.g., colour and texture) are often used when establishing one's orientation. Previous research has shown the use of these cues, in particular, geometry, may decline with healthy aging. Few studies have examined whether degenerative aging processes show similar time points for the decline of geometry use. The present study examined this issue by training adult and aged mice from two strains, a healthy wild-type and an Alzheimer's model, to search for a hidden platform in a rectangular water maze. The shape of the maze provided geometric information, and distinctive features were displayed on the walls. Following training, manipulations to the features were made to examine whether the mice were able to use the features and geometry, and whether they showed a preference between these two cue types. Results showed that although Alzheimer's transgenic mice were slower to learn the task, overall age rather than strain, was associated with a degradation in use of geometry. However, the presence of seemingly uninformative features (due to their redundancy) facilitated the use of geometry. Additionally, when features and geometry provided conflicting information, only young wild-type mice showed a primary use of features. Our results suggest the failure to use geometry may be a generalized function of aging, and not a diagnostic feature of degeneration for mice. Whether this is also the case for other mammals, such as humans for which the mouse is an important medical model, remains to be examined.
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Lu X, Yang B, Yu H, Hu X, Nie J, Wan B, Zhang M, Lü C. Epigenetic mechanisms underlying the effects of triptolide and tripchlorolide on the expression of neuroligin-1 in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 transgenic mice. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2019; 57:453-459. [PMID: 31311385 PMCID: PMC6691810 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2019.1629463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Context: Neuroligin-1 (NLGN1) is a cell adhesion protein located on the excitatory postsynaptic membrane. β-Amyloid (Aβ)-induced neuroinflammation decreases NLGN1 expression through epigenetic mechanisms. Triptolide (T10) and tripchlorolide (T4) exert protective effects on synapses in Alzheimer's disease (AD) mice, but the mechanisms remain unclear. Objective: The effects of T10 and T4 on hippocampal NLGN1 expression in AD mice and the epigenetic mechanisms were assessed using chromatin immunoprecipitation and methylated DNA immunoprecipitation. Materials and methods: Sixty APP/PS1 transgenic mice were randomly divided into an AD model group, a T10-treated group and a T4-treated group (n = 20); 20 wild-type littermates served as the control group. APP/PS1 transgenic mice were intraperitoneally injected with T10 (0.1 mg/kg) and T4 (25 μg/kg) once per day for 60 days. NLGN1 expression was examined using western blotting and quantitative PCR. Results: T10 and T4 increased the levels of the NLGN1 protein and mRNA in hippocampus of AD mice. T10 and T4 inhibited the binding of HDAC2 (p< 0.01) and MeCP2 (p< 0.01 and p< 0.05, respectively) to the NLGN1 promoter, and cytosine methylation (1.2305 ± 0.1482/1.2554 ± 0.3570 vs. 1.6578 ± 0.1818, p< 0.01) at the NLGN1 promoter in the hippocampus of AD mice. T10 and T4 increased the level of acetylated histone H3 (0.7733 ± 0.1611/0.8241 ± 0.0964 vs. 0.5587 ± 0.0925, p< 0.01) at the NLGN1 promoter in the hippocampus of AD mice. Conclusions: T10 and T4 may increase hippocampal NLGN1 expression in AD mice through epigenetic mechanisms, providing a new explanation for the mechanism underlying the protective effects of T10 and T4 on synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomei Lu
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Baolin Yang
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Hao Yu
- First Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiaoling Hu
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jing Nie
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Bin Wan
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Cheng Lü
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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6
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Standing on shoulders of a giant: Marcia Spetch’s contributions to the study of spatial reorientation. Behav Processes 2019; 160:33-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2018.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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7
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Buckley MG, Smith AD, Haselgrove M. Thinking outside of the box II: Disrupting the cognitive map. Cogn Psychol 2018; 108:22-41. [PMID: 30544029 DOI: 10.1016/j.cogpsych.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A number of influential spatial learning theories posit that organisms encode a viewpoint independent (i.e. allocentric) representation of the global boundary shape of their environment in order to support spatial reorientation and place learning. In contrast to the trial and error learning mechanisms that support domain-general processes, a representation of the global-shape of the environment is thought to be encoded automatically as part of a cognitive map, and without interference from other spatial cues. To date, however, this core theoretical assumption has not been appropriately examined. This is because previous attempts to address this question have failed to employ tasks that fully dissociate reorientation based on an allocentric representation of global-shape from egocentric reorientation strategies. Here, we address this issue in two experiments. Participants were trained to navigate to a hidden goal on one side of a virtual arena (e.g. the inside) before being required to find the same point on the alternative side (e.g. the outside). At test, performing the correct search behaviour requires an allocentric representation of the global boundary-shape. Using established associative learning procedures of overshadowing and blocking, we find that search behaviour at test is disrupted when participants were able to form landmark-goal associations during training. These results demonstrate that encoding of an allocentric representation of boundary information is susceptible to interference from landmark cues, and is not acquired through special means. Instead, the results suggest that allocentric representations of environmental boundaries are acquired through the same kind of error-correction mechanisms that support domain-general non-spatial learning.
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8
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Marguet SL, Le-Schulte VTQ, Merseburg A, Neu A, Eichler R, Jakovcevski I, Ivanov A, Hanganu-Opatz IL, Bernard C, Morellini F, Isbrandt D. Treatment during a vulnerable developmental period rescues a genetic epilepsy. Nat Med 2015; 21:1436-44. [PMID: 26594844 DOI: 10.1038/nm.3987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The nervous system is vulnerable to perturbations during specific developmental periods. Insults during such susceptible time windows can have long-term consequences, including the development of neurological diseases such as epilepsy. Here we report that a pharmacological intervention timed during a vulnerable neonatal period of cortical development prevents pathology in a genetic epilepsy model. By using mice with dysfunctional Kv7 voltage-gated K(+) channels, which are mutated in human neonatal epilepsy syndromes, we demonstrate the safety and efficacy of the sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporter NKCC1 antagonist bumetanide, which was administered during the first two postnatal weeks. In Kv7 current-deficient mice, which normally display epilepsy, hyperactivity and stereotypies as adults, transient bumetanide treatment normalized neonatal in vivo cortical network and hippocampal neuronal activity, prevented structural damage in the hippocampus and restored wild-type adult behavioral phenotypes. Furthermore, bumetanide treatment did not adversely affect control mice. These results suggest that in individuals with disease susceptibility, timing prophylactically safe interventions to specific windows during development may prevent or arrest disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Lawrence Marguet
- Experimental Neurophysiology, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany.,Institute for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Experimental Neuropediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Andrea Merseburg
- Experimental Neurophysiology, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany.,Institute for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Experimental Neuropediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Axel Neu
- Experimental Neuropediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ronny Eichler
- Experimental Neuropediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Igor Jakovcevski
- Experimental Neurophysiology, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany.,Institute for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Anton Ivanov
- Aix Marseille Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes (INS), Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) S1106, Marseille, France
| | - Ileana Livia Hanganu-Opatz
- Developmental Neurophysiology, Center for Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christophe Bernard
- Aix Marseille Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes (INS), Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) S1106, Marseille, France
| | - Fabio Morellini
- Experimental Neuropediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Behavioral Biology Unit, Center for Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dirk Isbrandt
- Experimental Neurophysiology, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany.,Institute for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Experimental Neuropediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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9
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Post-training, intrahippocampal HDAC inhibition differentially impacts neural circuits underlying spatial memory in adult and aged mice. Hippocampus 2015; 25:827-37. [DOI: 10.1002/hipo.22406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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10
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Abstract
The vestibular system contributes to the performance of various spatial memory tasks, but few studies have attempted to disambiguate the roles of the semicircular canals and otolith organs in this performance. This study tested the otolithic contribution to spatial working and reference memory by evaluating the performance of otoconia-deficient tilted mice on a radial arm maze and a Barnes maze. One radial arm maze task provided both intramaze and extramaze cues, whereas the other task provided only extramaze cues. The Barnes maze task provided only extramaze cues. On the radial arm maze, tilted mice performed similar to control mice when intramaze cues were available, but committed more working and reference memory errors than control mice when only extramaze cues were available. On the Barnes maze task, control and tilted mice showed similar latency, distance, and errors during acquisition training. On the subsequent probe trial, both groups spent the greatest percentage of time in the goal quadrant, indicating they were able to use extramaze cues to guide their search. Overall, these results suggest signals originating in the otolith organs contribute to spatial memory, but are not necessary for all aspects of spatial performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Yoder
- Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, Indiana
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11
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Morellini F. Spatial memory tasks in rodents: what do they model? Cell Tissue Res 2013; 354:273-86. [PMID: 23793547 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-013-1668-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2013] [Accepted: 05/23/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The analysis of spatial learning and memory in rodents is commonly used to investigate the mechanisms underlying certain forms of human cognition and to model their dysfunction in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. Proper interpretation of rodent behavior in terms of spatial memory and as a model of human cognitive functions is only possible if various navigation strategies and factors controlling the performance of the animal in a spatial task are taken into consideration. The aim of this review is to describe the experimental approaches that are being used for the study of spatial memory in rats and mice and the way that they can be interpreted in terms of general memory functions. After an introduction to the classification of memory into various categories and respective underlying neuroanatomical substrates, I explain the concept of spatial memory and its measurement in rats and mice by analysis of their navigation strategies. Subsequently, I describe the most common paradigms for spatial memory assessment with specific focus on methodological issues relevant for the correct interpretation of the results in terms of cognitive function. Finally, I present recent advances in the use of spatial memory tasks to investigate episodic-like memory in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Morellini
- AG Experimentelle Neuropädiatrie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany,
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12
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Abstract
Episodic memory is relevant for auto-consciousness in humans. In nonhuman animals, episodic-like memory is defined when the "what-where-when" content of a unique event forms an integrated cognitive representation that is then deployed during memory retrieval. Here, we aimed at testing episodic-like memories of mice under experimental conditions that allow the analysis of whether and how mice process what-where-when information. Using an ecologically relevant paradigm for spontaneous learning and memory, we show that mice modulate their behavior based on the what, where, and when components of past unique episodes, specifically on previous encounters of conspecifics at a defined location and at a specific time of the day. We also show that learning during this paradigm activated Arc/Arg3.1 mRNA expression in the hippocampus and that stereotactic injection of anisomycin into this region impairs memory consolidation. Thus, hippocampus-dependent episodic-like memories of single experiences are spontaneously created in mice. These findings extend our knowledge of the cognitive capacities of the mouse and suggest that this species can be used as model for studying the mechanisms underlying human episodic memory and related neurological disorders.
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13
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Twyman AD, Newcombe NS, Gould TJ. Malleability in the development of spatial reorientation. Dev Psychobiol 2012; 55:243-55. [DOI: 10.1002/dev.21017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2011] [Accepted: 01/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra D Twyman
- Department of Psychology, Brain and Mind Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5B7.
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14
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From natural geometry to spatial cognition. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2012; 36:799-824. [PMID: 22206900 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2011.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2011] [Revised: 12/07/2011] [Accepted: 12/13/2011] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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15
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Vallortigara G. Core knowledge of object, number, and geometry: a comparative and neural approach. Cogn Neuropsychol 2012; 29:213-36. [PMID: 22292801 DOI: 10.1080/02643294.2012.654772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Studies on the ontogenetic origins of human knowledge provide evidence for a small set of separable systems of core knowledge dealing with the representation of inanimate and animate objects, number, and geometry. Because core knowledge systems are evolutionarily ancient, they can be investigated from a comparative perspective, making use of various animal models. In this review, I discuss evidence showing precocious abilities in nonhuman species to represent (a) objects that move partly or fully out of view and their basic mechanical properties such as solidity, (b) the cardinal and ordinal/sequential aspects of numerical cognition and rudimentary arithmetic with small numerosities, and (c) the geometrical relationships among extended surfaces in the surrounding layout. Controlled rearing studies suggest that the abilities associated with core knowledge systems of objects, number, and geometry are observed in animals in the absence (or with very reduced) experience, supporting a nativistic foundation of such cognitive mechanisms. Animal models also promise a fresh approach to the issue of the neurobiological and genetic mechanisms underlying the expression of core knowledge systems.
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16
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Cognitive enhancing effects of an AMPA receptor positive modulator on place learning in mice. Behav Brain Res 2012; 226:18-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2011.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2011] [Revised: 08/23/2011] [Accepted: 08/25/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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17
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Fellini L, Morellini F. Geometric information is required for allothetic navigation in mice. Behav Brain Res 2011; 222:380-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2011.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2011] [Revised: 03/16/2011] [Accepted: 03/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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18
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Meier I, Fellini L, Jakovcevski M, Schachner M, Morellini F. Expression of the snoRNA host gene gas5 in the hippocampus is upregulated by age and psychogenic stress and correlates with reduced novelty-induced behavior in C57BL/6 mice. Hippocampus 2011; 20:1027-36. [PMID: 19739230 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.20701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The growth arrest specific 5 (gas5) is a noncoding protein gene that hosts small nucleolar RNAs. Based on the observation that gas5 RNA level in the brain is highest in the hippocampus and remarkably enhanced in aged mice, we tested the hypothesis that gas5 is involved in functions controlled by the hippocampus and known to be affected by age, such as spatial learning and novelty-induced behaviors. We show that aged (22-month-old) C57BL/6 male mice have spatial-learning impairments, reduced novelty-induced exploration, and enhanced gas5 RNA levels in the hippocampus compared to young (3-month-old) mice. At both ages, levels of gas5 RNA in the hippocampus negatively correlated with novelty-induced exploration in the open field and elevated-plus maze tests. No correlations were found between gas5 RNA levels in the hippocampus and performance in the water maze test. The expression of gas5 RNA in the rest of the brain did not correlate with any behavioral parameter analyzed. Because variations in novelty-induced behaviors could be caused by stressfull experiences, we analyzed whether gas5 RNA levels in the hippocampus are regulated by acute stressors. We found that gas5 RNA levels in the hippocampus were upregulated by 50% 24 h after a psychogenic stressor (60-min olfactory contact with a rat) but were unchanged after exposure to an unfamiliar environment or after acquisition of new spatial information in a one-trial learning task. The present results suggest that strong psychogenic stressors upregulate gas5 RNA in the hippocampus, which in turn affects novelty-induced responses controlled by this region. We hypothesize that long-life exposure to stressors causes an age-dependent increase in hippocampal gas5 RNA levels, which could be responsible for age-related reduced novelty-induced behaviors, thus suggesting a new mechanism by which ageing and stress affect hippocampal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingo Meier
- Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Zentrum für Molekulare Neurobiologie Hamburg, Germany
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Clark BJ, Harris MJ, Taube JS. Control of anterodorsal thalamic head direction cells by environmental boundaries: comparison with conflicting distal landmarks. Hippocampus 2010; 22:172-87. [PMID: 21080407 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.20880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/11/2010] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Experiments were conducted to determine whether environmental boundaries exert preferential control over the tuning of head direction (HD) cells. In each experiment, HD cells were recorded in the rat anterodorsal thalamus while they foraged for randomly scattered food in trapezoid- and rectangle-shaped environments. After an initial recording session, each environment was rotated 90°, and changes in the preferred firing directions of HD cells were monitored. Rats were disoriented before each test session to prevent the use of self-movement cues to maintain orientation from one session to the next. In Experiment 1, we demonstrate that HD cell tuning consistently shifted in register with the trapezoid shaped enclosure, but was more variable in the rectangle shaped environment. In Experiments 2 and 3, we show that the strong control by the trapezoid persists in the presence of one clearly visible distal landmark, but not when three or more distal landmarks, including view of the recording room, are present. Together, the results indicate that distinct environmental boundaries exert strong stimulus control over HD cell orientation. However, this geometric control can be overridden with a sufficient number of salient distal landmarks. These results stand in contrast to the view that information from geometric cues usually takes precedence over information from landmark cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Clark
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Center for Cognitive Neuroscience, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
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Morellini F, Sivukhina E, Stoenica L, Oulianova E, Bukalo O, Jakovcevski I, Dityatev A, Irintchev A, Schachner M. Improved reversal learning and working memory and enhanced reactivity to novelty in mice with enhanced GABAergic innervation in the dentate gyrus. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 20:2712-27. [PMID: 20194688 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhq017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The balance between excitation and inhibition controls fundamental aspects of the hippocampal function. Here, we report an increase in the ratio of inhibitory to excitatory neurons in the dentate gyrus, accompanied by γ-aminobutyric acid(A) (GABA(A)) receptor-dependent impairment of synaptic plasticity and enhancement of activity-dependent changes in excitability in anesthetized adult mice deficient for the extracellular matrix glycoprotein tenascin-R (TNR). TNR-deficient mice showed faster reversal learning, improved working memory, and enhanced reactivity to novelty than wild-type littermates. Remarkably, in wild-type and TNR-deficient mice, faster reversal learning rates correlated at the individual animal level with ratios of parvalbumin-positive interneurons to granule cells and densities of parvalbumin-positive terminals on somata of granule cells. Our data demonstrate that modification of the extracellular matrix by ablation of TNR leads to a new structural and functional design of the dentate gyrus, with enhanced GABAergic innervation, that is, enhanced ratio of inhibitory to excitatory cells, and altered plasticity, promoting working memory and reversal learning. In wild-type mice, the enhanced ratio of inhibitory to excitatory cells in the dentate gyrus also positively correlated with reversal learning, indicating that level of inhibition regulates specific aspects of learning independent of the TNR gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Morellini
- Zentrum für Molekulare Neurobiologie Hamburg, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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