Open Field Behavior Test: A Method to Assess General Locomotion and Exploration Habits

Abstract

Source: Osmon, K. J., et al. Battery of Behavioral Tests Assessing General Locomotion, Muscular Strength, and Coordination in Mice. J. Vis. Exp. (2018).

This video describes the open field behavior test used to examine general locomotion and exploration habits in rodents. 

Protocol

All procedures involving animal models have been reviewed by the local institutional animal care committee and the JoVE veterinary review board.

NOTE: Murine behavioral studies are largely sex/age/strain-dependent, and therefore it is essential to collect the proper time points and to remain consistent across experimental groups. Environmental factors (e.g., scents, noise, temperature, humidity lighting, etc.) greatly affect behavior and anxiety in mice. Try to reduce these environmental factors as much as possible.

1. Open Field Test

....

Materials

List of materials used in this article

Name	Company	Catalog Number	Comments
Square Open Field 45 x 45 x 40 cm (grey color). Other floor color available: white, black.	Harvard Aparatus (PanLab)	760190
Open Field Preconfigured Module	Harvard Aparatus (PanLab)	760688
Smart V3.0 Software Platform	Harvard Aparatus (PanLab)	760681
Video converter (analog/digital)	Harvard Aparatus (PanLab)	760262
Roof fixing sys for camera	Harvard Aparatus (PanLab)	760277
Analog Sony Camera & lens NTSC	Harvard Aparatus (PanLab)	760505