The Object Space Task reveals increased expression of cumulative memory in a mouse model of Kleefstra syndrome.

Abstract

Kleefstra syndrome is a disorder caused by a mutation in the EHMT1 gene characterized in humans by general developmental delay, mild to severe intellectual disability and autism. Here, we characterized cumulative memory in the Ehmt1mouse model using the Object Space Task. We combined conventional behavioral analysis with automated analysis by deep-learning networks, a session-based computational learning model, and a trial-based classifier. Ehmt1mice showed more anxiety-like features and generally explored objects less, but the difference decreased over time. Interestingly, when analyzing memory-specific exploration, Ehmt1show increased expression of cumulative memory, but a deficit in a more simple, control memory condition. Using our automatic classifier to differentiate between genotypes, we found that cumulative memory features are better suited for classification than general exploration differences. Thus, detailed behavioral classification with the Object Space Task produced a more detailed behavioral phenotype of the Ehmt1mouse model.