Three dimensional path integration in the house mouse (Mus domestica)

Abstract

Previous studies have explored two-dimensional path integration in rodents by recording responses to passive rotation on a horizontal plane. This study adds the element of passive rotation in a vertical plane, necessitating the mouse to integrate positional information from three dimensions. Mice were trained to climb a wire mesh joining two horizontal planes. The whole arena was rotated 90 degrees while the mouse was vertically oriented as it moved between planes. Rotation was conducted both clockwise and counter-clockwise, controls being provided by rotation of the arena while the mouse was in its nest-box. All 16 mice tested altered their direction of travel subsequent to rotation in the vertical plane, compensating with a change in their path on the following horizontal plane.