Odor Retention
Bryan Killinger, sdwalto, Jeffrey Kordower
Abstract
Odor retention test optimized for mice. This test assesses short term olfactory memory. Mice with olfactory impairments or deficits should score lower.
Steps
Prepare and empty rodent cage with no bedding.
Prepare the odorants by diluting in mineral oil. (See guidelines)
Acclimate mouse to setup (empty cage with odor cartridges). Place mouse in the cage and expose to 2 empty odor cartridges on either side of the cage for 5 mins.
Expose mouse to the same unfamiliar odor in both cartridges for 5 mins. ( Acquisition )
After 6, 16 or 30 mins post-acquisition, expose the mouse to a novel odorant and the familiar odorant from Step 4 and record the time spent investigating both the novel and familiar odorant for all trials. (Total investigation time capped at 1 min). ( Recall )
The preferred odor was recorded and the preference was calculated based on the recall trial.
