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The delayed non-match to sample (DNMS) task is utilized to investigate spatial learning mechanisms associated with the hippocampal system.
The maze is constructed from dark brown painted acrylic boards and includes distinct arms and a start box. Pigs enter the maze through a rear door in the start box, which features three guillotine doors operated by ropes. Additionally, swing doors are used to block off maze arms.
In the DNMS task, subjects are required to learn a specific path during the sample phase, retain this information during a delay period, and subsequently choose a novel path during the test phase. The delay period between path learning and testing challenges memory retention abilities. Subjects are incentivized with food rewards for correctly selecting the novel route.
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Features |
Height of maze: 1.2m |
Width of maze: 3m |
Depth of maze: 4m |
Width of arms: 1m |
Length of start box: 1m |
Width of start box: 1m |
The DNMS task in pigs is utilized to explore the involvement of the hippocampal system in spatial learning. During this task, pigs are required to learn a specific path during the sample phase, retain it through a delay period, and then select the novel path during the test phase. The delay period between learning and testing challenges their memory retention abilities. Pigs are motivated by food rewards for choosing the novel route, making the task engaging. The maze assesses their ability to recall spatial information and make correct choices.
In research, the pig DNMS task helps investigate the role of the medial temporal lobe and hippocampal system in memory recognition within the context of disease models. It is particularly valuable for studying how brain injuries can disrupt recognition memory and for developing potential therapeutic approaches. The maze design is inspired by the T-maze used in rodents for spatial memory assessment, with Guillotine doors controlling pig movement within the apparatus. Other apparatuses used for evaluating memory and learning behaviors in pigs include the Pig T Maze, Pig 8 Arm Radial Maze, and Pig Hebb-Williams Maze.
The design of the DNMS task maze for pigs closely follows the T-maze blueprint. It stands at a height of 1.2 meters, with dimensions stretching 4 meters in depth and 3 meters in width. Each arm spans 1 meter in width. Positioned at the maze’s entrance is a 1m x 1m start box equipped with three guillotine doors, leading to the start arm, left arm, and right arm of the maze. Adjacent to the start box, a door in the left arm allows experimenter access during testing. At the far end of the maze, two swing doors regulate subject entry into the choice arms. The maze floor is delineated with criteria lines marking the choice (1 meter away) and goal (2.5 meters from the start) areas.
Before commencing trials, ensure the maze is cleaned thoroughly with water to eliminate any potential olfactory cues that could interfere. Throughout the delay period, repeat this cleaning process to maintain a neutral environment.
For precise tracking and recording of behavior during tasks, consider employing external systems like the Noldus Ethovision XT.
Prior to beginning the shaping procedure, it is recommended to habituate subjects to both the experimenter and the maze over a period of three weeks.
Following parameters are recorded by using the pig DNMS task
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