Basic NeuroscienceA cold radial maze for long-lasting spatial memory in mice

Here we report the establishment of a novel spatial learning and memory test called the cold radial maze. It is specifically designed for mice, with all conditions tailored to their natural behaviors. The cold radial maze is a dry-land test with easy-to-measure variables that relies on a consistent motivation system and limits the moderately adverse experience to the duration of testing. Training on this maze produces a long-lasting, resistant, and reversible spatial memory in mice in a reproducible way, without introducing undesirable side effects typically produced in other spatial learning tests. This novel behavioral technique may prove useful in studying mouse models of memory impairment-associated human conditions.

► We developed a novel spatial learning test for mice, the cold radial maze. ► It is ethologically relevant and limits adverse experience to the time of testing. ► Its cold surface warrants strong and consistent motivation in mice. ► We show that learning on the new task is gradual, reproducible and reversible. ► Training on the cold radial maze produces a long-lasting and resistant memory.