Behavioral Preclinical Services

Overview

We have combined natural rat models with a battery of common behavioral tests for cognitive and behavioral research. Rather than pharmacological and surgical manipulation of rat models, our patented chromosomal substitution process maps the quantitative trait loci for complex human disorders onto the test subjects. This approach makes interpretation of test results much less complicated and reduces the possibility of side-effects.

Behavioral Test Battery

• Porsolt Forced Swim Test - Evaluate the level of depressive-like behavior
• Rotarod Test - Assess a drug’s side effect on motor coordination (ataxia)
• Morris Water Maze Test - Model deficiencies of spatial memory
• Open Field Activity Test - Development of drugs that treat hyperactivity (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
• Pavlovian Fear Conditioning - Developing drugs that model anxiety disorders
• Hot Plate - Pain sensitivity
• Elevated Plus Maze - Anxiety