A virtual burrow assay for head-fixed mice measures habituation, discrimination, exploration and avoidance without training

Abstract

We have designed an assay that measures approach and avoidance behaviors in headfixed mice at millisecond timescale, is compatible with standard electrophysiological and optical methods for measuring neuronal activity, and requires no training. The Virtual Burrow Assay simulates a scenario in which a mouse, poised at the threshold of its burrow, evaluates whether to exit the enclosure or to retreat inside. The assay provides a sensitive readout of habituation, discrimination and exploration, as well as avoidance of both conditioned and innately aversive cues.