Simultaneous analysis of social behaviors and neural responses in mice using round social arena system

Stable and accurate capturing of detailed social behaviors is essential for studying rodent sociability. Here, we introduce a round social arena (RSA) system that enables close-up monitoring of detailed social behaviors in mice. We describe the steps to build RSA apparatus and set up the wiring for video synchronization. We then detail how to conduct RSA experiment with simultaneous Ca2+ imaging or optogenetics. This protocol also includes a custom MATLAB script for aligning the behavioral dataset to Ca2+ trace data. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Kim et al. (2022). [Display omitted] •A round-shaped rodent social behavior testing arena with multiple cameras•Enables detailed capture and analysis of social interactions with minimal blind spots•Induces longer duration of social interaction than conventional sociability test•Compatible with simultaneous acquisition of neural data or optogenetic manipulations Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics. Stable and accurate capturing of detailed social behaviors is essential for studying rodent sociability. Here, we introduce a round social arena (RSA) system that enables close-up monitoring of detailed social behaviors in mice. We describe the steps to build RSA apparatus and set up the wiring for video synchronization. We then detail how to conduct RSA experiment with simultaneous Ca2+ imaging or optogenetics. This protocol also includes a custom MATLAB script for aligning the behavioral dataset to Ca2+ trace data.