The ‘mouse fitness centre’: A standardized test system to assess motor functionS. S. ArndtAnatomy II, Cognitive Neurobiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, GermanyThe non-automated multi-task testing apparatus mouse fitness centre (FC), allows testing a large number of animals within a short period of time. This apparatus is simple-to-do and enables the quick assessment of an important aspect of the general health of mice, namely motor (dys-)functions. The system integrates eight tests that enable to detect motor dysfunctions:
All motor tests should be performed in close succession in order to minimize testing-related stress in the mice. This is realized by installing all components of the FC on a so-called ‘basis’, which guides all necessary adaptations for performing the next test in a series. These adaptations are de.ned in a standard protocol that must be applied strictly. Working with ‘standardized’ animals (i.e. animals with similar motor abilities) increases the likelihood that results from different studies and laboratories are similar and that findings can be reproduced. To our knowledge no automated system exists covering the functionality of the FC. However, specific features of the FC probably can be automated. The FC, as part of the assessment of the general health status, should proceed any further behavioral testing of mice (and other rodents). Pre-screening and detection of motor dysfunctions allows, for example, to select cognition tests that do not require the compromised motor function. Moreover, these data help to interpret results obtained by use of other tests and to put them into perspective. Paper presented at Measuring Behavior 2005 , 5th International Conference on Methods and Techniques in Behavioral Research, 30 August - 2 September 2005, Wageningen, The Netherlands. © 2005 Noldus Information Technology bv |