Behavioural phenotyping

N. Cermakian, C.D. Walker, E.M. Charbonneau and colleagues

Douglas Hospital Research Centre, McGill University

The effects of altered gene expression (transgenic, knock-out or knock-in animals) on the function of the central nervous system are complex and require extensive characterization using the appropriate behavioural tests. The Neurophenotyping service platform of the Douglas Hospital Research Centre provides expertise in all aspects of behavioural testing as well as data analysis and interpretation. The Neurophenotyping service platform Centre is fully equipped to accommodate a full battery of behavioural tests relevant to anxiety, memory and learning, motor function, nociception and drug effects, stress, impulsivity and test for drug side effects.

List of different tests offered at the Neurophenotyping Centre at the Douglas Hospital Research Centre.

Most tests can be performed with rats and mice.

Anxiety-related tests

Elevated plus Maze

Open field

Fear potentiated startle

Tatcher Britton novelty conflict paradigm

Memory and learning tests

Morris water Maze

Morris water Maze special version (be available soon)

Object recognition

Radial arm maze

Motor Function tests

Open field locomotors activity

Pre-pulse inhibition

Nociception and drugs effects tests

Tail flick

Van Frey hair

Thermal sensitivity test (hot paw and formalin test)

Stress tests

Tail pinch

Forced swim test

Restrain test

Intruder (test social)

Impulsivity test

Differential reinforcement of low rates task

Screening test for drug side effects

Conditioned taste aversion

Service Request

Experts in the field will assist the researcher in the behavioural phenotyping of genetically modified mice by providing a range of services, including consultation, training in the execution of tests and the performance and analysis of experiments.

Fee Structure

Pricing for behavioural phenotyping services is dependent upon the scope of the project. We will work closely with the researcher to develop the most cost-effective approach to project design and execution.

For requests please contact:  M. Chagnon