The Three-Chamber Choice Behavioral Task using Zebrafish as a Model System

J Vis Exp. 2021 Apr 14:(170). doi: 10.3791/61934.

Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases are age-dependent, debilitating, and incurable. Recent reports have also correlated hyperglycemia with changes in memory and/or cognitive impairment. We have modified and developed a three-chamber choice cognitive task similar to that used with rodents for use with hyperglycemic zebrafish. The testing chamber consists of a centrally located starting chamber and two choice compartments on either side, with a shoal of conspecifics used as the reward. We provide data showing that once acquired, zebrafish remember the task at least 8 weeks later. Our data indicate that zebrafish respond robustly to this reward, and we have identified cognitive deficits in hyperglycemic fish after 4 weeks of treatment. This behavioral assay may also be applicable to other studies related to cognition and memory.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Video-Audio Media

MeSH terms

  • Acclimatization
  • Animals
  • Behavior, Animal*
  • Choice Behavior*
  • Cognitive Dysfunction
  • Discrimination, Psychological
  • Hyperglycemia / pathology
  • Models, Biological*
  • Task Performance and Analysis*
  • Zebrafish / physiology*