Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 2
Classical Conditioning of the Proboscis
Extension Refl ex in the Honeybee
Yukihisa Matsumoto , Jean-Christophe Sandoz , and Martin Giurfa
Abstract
Insects have sophisticated learning abilities subtended by simple neural
systems and lower numbers of neurons compared to vertebrates. Especially, honey-
bees (
Apis mellifera
) are reported to have the highest and broad range of learning
abilities. In this chapter, we introduce a classic behavioral tool for the study of
olfactory learning and memory in bees, the olfactory classical conditioning of the
proboscis extension refl ex (PER). In this protocol, individually harnessed honey-
bees are trained to associate an odor with sucrose solution. The resulting olfactory
learning is fast and induces robust olfactory memories that have been characterized
at the behavioral, neuronal, and molecular levels. We detail step-by-step the meth-
odology of olfactory PER conditioning in order to provide a standardized frame-
work for experiments using this tool. We also review research highlights revealed
by olfactory conditioning of PER and variations of this procedure applied in the
case of honeybees.
