Publication Date
7-2004
Journal
Learn Mem. 2004 Jul-Aug;11(4):412-20. Epub 2004 Jul 14.Click here to read
Abstract
Operant and classical conditioning are major processes shaping behavioral responses in all animals. Although the understanding of the mechanisms of classical conditioning has expanded significantly, the understanding of the mechanisms of operant conditioning is more limited. Recent developments in Aplysia are helping to narrow the gap in the level of understanding between operant and classical conditioning, and have raised the possibility of studying the neuronal processes underlying the interaction of operant and classical components in a relatively complex learning task. In the present study, we describe a first step toward realizing this goal, by developing a single in vitro preparation in which both operant and classical conditioning can be studied concurrently. The new paradigm reproduced previously published results, even under more conservative and homogenous selection criteria and tonic stimulation regime. Moreover, the observed learning was resistant to delay, shortening, and signaling of reinforcement.
Keywords
Analysis of Variance, Animals, Aplysia, Association Learning, Cheek, Conditioning, Classical, Conditioning, Operant, Electrophysiology, Feeding Behavior, Ganglia, Invertebrate, Motor Neurons, Neurobiology
Comments
PMCID: PMC498323
doi: 10.1101/lm.74404.