Learning and memory in S100-beta transgenic mice: An analysis of impaired and preserved function

S100-beta, a calcium-binding astrocytic protein from chromosome 21, has bee n implicated in CNS function generally and the hippocampus in particular. E levated levels of S 100-beta have been observed reliably in the brains of p atients with Alzheimer's Disease and Down Syndrome. Groups of transgenic mi ce, carrying multiple S100-beta gene copies, and nontransgenic controls wer e administered a series of behavioral tests (delayed spatial and nonspatial non-matching-to-sample, radial arm maze, socially acquired food preference ) that assessed a wide range of cognitive functions. Consistent with the wi despread presence of S100-beta throughout the brain, transgenic mice exhibi ted learning or memory impairment on all tasks. The dementia-like cognitive profile of S100-beta mice represents a promising model for studying compar able cognitive deficits associated with neurodegenerative diseases. (C) 200 1 Academic Press.