Second-order conditioning in Drosophila

Learn Mem. 2011 Mar 25;18(4):250-3. doi: 10.1101/lm.2035411. Print 2011.

Abstract

Associative conditioning in Drosophila melanogaster has been well documented for several decades. However, most studies report only simple associations of conditioned stimuli (CS, e.g., odor) with unconditioned stimuli (US, e.g., electric shock) to measure learning or establish memory. Here we describe a straightforward second-order conditioning (SOC) protocol that further demonstrates the flexibility of fly behavior. In SOC, a previously conditioned stimulus (CS1) is used as reinforcement for a second conditioned stimulus (CS2) in associative learning. This higher-order context presents an opportunity for reassessing the roles of known learning and memory genes and neuronal networks in a new behavioral paradigm.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Analysis of Variance
  • Animals
  • Behavior, Animal
  • Conditioning, Classical / physiology*
  • Discrimination Learning / physiology
  • Drosophila / physiology*
  • Electric Stimulation / adverse effects
  • Extinction, Psychological
  • Maze Learning / physiology
  • Odorants
  • Reinforcement, Psychology
  • Smell / physiology*