The Accelerating Rotating Rod Assay or Rotarod Test: A Method to Test Motor Coordination and Learning in Mice

The accelerating rotarod device, as the name suggests, consists of a rotating rod whose speed of rotation accelerates at a predetermined rate over a set time period. The rod is placed high enough to discourage subjects from jumping off, while dividers separate it into equally spaced lanes, keeping animals apart.

To perform the test, place the mice on the rotating rod in their respective lanes and then gradually increase the speed. Mice will grip tightly onto the rod to keep their balance and avoid falling off. Record the time until they fall across repeated trials to assess motor coordination and learning.