Abstract
Memory generalization is the ability to abstract knowledge from prior experiences and is critical for flexible behavior in novel situations. Here, we describe a protocol for simultaneous recording of hippocampal (area CA1) – prefrontal cortical (PFC) neural ensembles in Long-Evans rats during task generalization across two distinct environments. We describe steps for building and assembling experimental apparatuses, animal preparation and surgery, and performing experiments. We then detail procedures for histology, data processing, and assessing population geometry using UMAP.1
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•Build behavioral apparatus to perform linear and W-Track experiments•Fabrication of 32 and 64 tetrode microdrive arrays•Microdrive implant surgery, electrode adjustment, and experimental design•Assessment of CA1-PFC latent space representations using UMAP
Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.