Opto-Negative Reinforcement Paradigm (Opto-NR)

Protocol for Opto-Negative Reinforcement paradigm (Opto-NR). This test uses an operant conditioning box with two nose-poke devices to test aversive learning in mice. In this test, one nose-poke device is "active", while the other is "inactive." During the test, optogenetic stimulations (10s) are alternated with no stimulation at variable-time intervals. Whenever the "active" device is nose-poked, the optogenetic stimulation turns OFF and produces a visible safety signal (house light ON). The "inactive" device has no control over the laser. An increased number of "active" nose-pokes suggests that the optogenetic stimulation is aversive.