Rotarod test in rats
Veerle Baekelandt, María Sanchiz Calvo, Eduard Bentea
Abstract
Protocol for performing the rotarod test in rats. This test evaluated motor coordination and balance, and can be used in rat models with motor deficits, such as models of Parkison's disease. Rats with impaired motor function show a decreased latency to fall from the rotating rod.
Steps
Training
Bring cages to the behavioral room for at least 1h 0m 0s prior to the test for habituation
Habituate rats on the rotarod for 0h 5m 0s at 5 rpm, place back in case they fall
0h 5m 0s rest
Test rats for 0h 1m 0s at 5 rpm
0h 5m 0s rest
Test rats for 0h 1m 0s at 10 rpm
0h 5m 0s rest
Test rats for 0h 1m 0s at 15 rpm
Baseline
One day after training, perform baseline measurements
Bring cages to the behavioral room for at least 1h 0m 0s prior to the test for habituation
Test rats at 4-40 rpm for a total duration of 0h 5m 0s
0h 5m 0s rest
Test rats at 4-40 rpm for a total duration of 0h 5m 0s
0h 5m 0s rest
Test rats at 4-40 rpm for a total duration of 0h 5m 0s
Test
At different timepoints during the experiment, evaluate changes in motor performance using the same protocol as during baseline
Bring cages to the behavioral room for at least 1h 0m 0s prior to the test for habituation
Test rats at 4-40 rpm for a total duration of 0h 5m 0s
0h 5m 0s rest
Test rats at 4-40 rpm for a total duration of 0h 5m 0s
0h 5m 0s rest
Test rats at 4-40 rpm for a total duration of 0h 5m 0s
