Differences in learning and memory between middle-aged female and male rats
Open Access
- 15 April 2022
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in Learning & Memory
- Vol. 29 (5), 120-125
- https://doi.org/10.1101/lm.053578.122
Abstract
We observed differences in cognitive functions between middle-aged female and male Wistar rats. Both (like youngsters) discriminated new versus familiar objects, showing similar short- and long-term memory (STM and LTM, respectively). Only females show robust LTM for new location of an object. Both successfully form LTM of inhibitory avoidance, though males appeared to be amnesic for memory persistence. Habituation, locomotion, horizontal exploration, “stereotypies,” fear, and anxiety-like behavior were similar for both, while vertical exploration was significantly higher in middle-aged and younger females. Therefore, sex-dependent differences in some cognitive functions and behaviors must be considered when designing and interpreting learning and memory studies.Keywords
Funding Information
- National Agency for the Promotion of Science and Technology (PICT no. 2016-2513)
- UBA
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (PIP2015-2017)
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