Combined CatWalk Index: an improved method to measure mouse motor function using the automated gait analysis system.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Measuring motor function in mice is important for studying models of spinal cord injury (SCI) or other diseases. Several methods exist based on visual observation of mice moving in an open field. Though these methods require very little equipment, observers must be trained, and the possibility of human error or subjectivity cannot be eliminated. The Noldus CatWalk XT Automated Gait Analysis system assesses mouse motor function by taking high-resolution videos of the mice, with specialized software to measure several aspects of the animal's gait. This instrument reduces the possibility of human error, but it is not always clear what data is important for assessing motor function. This study used data collected during mouse SCI experiments to create a simple mathematical mo

SUBMITTER: Crowley ST 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5924449 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature