Novel Object Recognition (NOR): Principles & Protocol
Novel Object Recognition (NOR) is a classic spontaneous assay of recognition memory. Based on novelty preference, one familiar object is replaced with a novel one; differences in exploration time reflect memory for the familiar object and discrimination of the new one.
NOR is used for recognition-memory mechanisms, cognitive impairment models (e.g., AD), hippocampal and prefrontal function, psychiatric models (e.g., schizophrenia), and screening of cognitive enhancers or neuroprotectants.
Automatically computes recognition index (novel / total exploration) and discrimination index ((novel − familiar) / total)—SCI-ready metrics without manual Excel formulas.
Traditional 2D tools confuse facing-vs-passing due to turns and occlusion. AI pose tracking measures true object-directed exploration and improves data reliability.
Training-phase location preference near 50% confirms no side bias—reducing false positives that many tools ignore.
| Parameter | Description | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| sample_name | Sample name | — |
| group_label | Group label | — |
| total_distance | Total distance | cm |
| average_speed | Average speed | cm/s |
| xxx_distance | Distance in a region | cm |
| xxx_distance_ratio | Region distance ratio | % |
| xxx_average_speed | Average speed in a region | cm/s |
| xxx_time | Time in a region | s |
| xxx_time_ratio | Region time ratio | % |
| xxx_number_of_entries | Entries into a region | count |
| outside_distance | Distance outside regions | cm |
| outside_distance_ratio | Outside distance ratio | % |
| outside_time | Time outside regions | s |
| outside_time_ratio | Outside time ratio | % |
| Parameter | Description | Meaning | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| recognition_index | Recognition index | Novel-object exploration time / total object exploration time | % |
| discrimination_index | Discrimination index | (Novel − familiar exploration time) / total object exploration time | % |