Neurological Behavioral Assessment of Exon-Skipping Therapy for Neuromuscular Disorders Using Displaced Object Recognition Test, Open Field Test, and Three-Chamber Social Approach Test.

Abstract

The displaced object recognition test (DORT), open field test (OFT), and three-chamber social approach test are standard behavioral assays used to assess the various aspects of cognition, emotional regulation, and social behavior in rodent models. This protocol introduces the use of these three tests to comprehensively evaluate the therapeutic effects of antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-mediated exon-skipping therapies in neuromuscular disease models, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Exon-skipping therapies aim to restore dystrophin expression, which can potentially influence cognitive, emotional, and social functions. By combining these tests, a multifaceted assessment of therapeutic efficacy can be achieved. This protocol is applicable not only to exon 51/53-skipping therapies but also to other exon-skipping treatments, enabling a broad evaluation of the therapeutic impact on cognition, emotional regulation, and social behavior.