Figure 5.

Gm2a −/− mice show difference in motor coordination and possible memory deficit when compared with control mice. (A) The ability to maintain balance on a rotating rotorod was measured every 2 weeks beginning at 13 weeks of age. Mean (±SEM) speed to fall from the rotorod for Gm2a −/− (n = 12) and controls (n = 12). Controls stayed on the rotorod significantly longer than Gm2a −/− mice overall. Controls exhibited improved rotorod performance over the 20-week testing period, while performance of the Gm2a −/− mice remained stable. (B) Mean (±SEM) latency to enter a dark chamber on the passive avoidance task for Gm2a −/− (n = 10) and controls (n = 12). Gm2a −/− mice were quicker to enter the dark chamber on the test trial, indicating poorer retention for the aversive experience of the previous day.