Adaptable and Automated Rodent Behavior Maze System

AbstractMazes are a fundamental and widespread tool in behavior and systems neuroscience research in rodents. However, their form and inflexibility often restrict potential experimental paradigms that involve multiple or adaptive maze designs. Unique layouts often cost substantial engineering and time investments from trainee scientists. To alleviate these issues, we have developed an automated modular maze system that is flexible and scalable. This system will allow for experiments with multiple track configurations in rapid succession. Additionally, the flexibility can expedite prototyping of behaviors. Finally, the standardized componentry enhances experimental reproducibility and repeatability. This maze system presents advantages over current maze options and can facilitate novel behavior and systems neuroscience research.HighlightsModular maze system enables same-day behavior recordings from multiple flexibly-configured maze environments.High degree of experimental reproducibility and repeatability.Automated lick-detection, liquid reward delivery, and movable barriers.Electronics interface with SpikeGadgets hardware for plug-and-play automated control.Flexibility enables rapid experimental piloting.