Animal behavior analysis was performed by using Morris Water Maze (MWM) and Y-maze tests by using a video tracking software (SMART Panlab, Harvard Apparatus, Holliston, MA, USA). Behavioral analysis was conducted daily (after 1 h of drug/chemical administration) according to the plan of experiment. To evaluate the memory and learning performance, MWM was conducted as described previously [29 (link),30 (link)] with some small modifications. After receiving 2 consecutive days of training, latency (sec) was measured to assess the time taken to reach the hidden platform for 6 consecutive days. On the following day, we performed the probe test for the evaluation of memory consolidation by removing the platform and allowing the animal to swim freely for 1 min. The crossing numbers over the previously hidden platform and the time spent in the specific target quadrant were measured.
Next, for Y-maze analysis, we placed each mouse in the middle of the device to freely move for 3–8 min in the maze. Entries into the arms were recorded digitally. Spontaneous alternation behavior is defined as the [successive triplet sets (consecutive entries into three different arms)/total number of arm entries-2] × 100. Improved memory and cognitive function were reflected by a higher % of spontaneous alternation behavior.
Next, for Y-maze analysis, we placed each mouse in the middle of the device to freely move for 3–8 min in the maze. Entries into the arms were recorded digitally. Spontaneous alternation behavior is defined as the [successive triplet sets (consecutive entries into three different arms)/total number of arm entries-2] × 100. Improved memory and cognitive function were reflected by a higher % of spontaneous alternation behavior.
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