Behavioral Phenotyping

Available Devices

In order to screen for altered anatomy and / or physiological and behavioral functions, EPIC provides access to various devices used in standardized phenotying.

The following devices are avaialble within the EPIC clean-room barrier:

• CatWalk is an automated gait analysis system to objectively assess function including movement deficits, and locomotor problems.
• RotaRod test is used to assess motor coordination and balance in rodents. The rotarod measures motor coordination and motor function. The effects of drugs, disease, ageing, and neural damage on muscle strength may be assessed.
• Grip Strength Meter is used to measure neuromuscular function as maximal muscle strength.
• Open Field Test (Noldus Ethovision) is a commonly used measure of general locomotor activity, willingness to explore and behaviour.
• 3-Chamber Sociability Test to assess cognition in the form of general sociability and interest in social novelty in models of CNS disorders
• Elevated Plus Maze is used for measuring anxiety-like behavior.
• The CODA tail-cuff blood pressure system to allow accurate non-invasive blood pressure measurement.