Rat Behavioral Tests
Rat behavioral tests offered by the Rodent Models Core are listed below. Please click the plus sign next to the test name to view additional information.
The rotarod is designed to test balance and motor coordination. Animals are placed onto a horizontal rotating rod which accelerates over the course of a trial. A single trial lasts from the time the animal is placed on the rod until it falls off or until 5 minutes have elapsed. Animals can also be tested chronically to examine learning or motor degeneration.
- Go the Accelerating Rotarod page for additional information.
Waisman Account Required.
Contact Jules Panksepp, PhD with questions or to be added to the schedule.
The grip strength assay uses a meter to measure forepaw strength based on force exerted to pull back a metal grid.
- Go the Grip Strength page for additional information.
Waisman Account Required.
Contact Jules Panksepp, PhD with questions or to be added to the schedule.
The horizontal ladder measures motor coordination and gait by observing foot placement as the rat walks across the ladder.
- Go the Horizontal ladder page for additional information.
Waisman Account Required.
Contact Jules Panksepp, PhD with questions or to be added to the schedule.
This is a semi-automated system for rodent kinematic gait analysis with high sensitivity to evaluate 4 different motion modalities – over ground walking, skilled ladder walking, wading in water and swimming.
Contact Jules Panksepp, PhD with questions.
The hot plate assay measures thermal sensitivity by recording the latency to the first aversive response.
- Go the Hot Plate Analgesia page for additional information.
Waisman Account Required.
Contact Jules Panksepp, PhD with questions or to be added to the schedule.