Description
Features |
A load cell underneath the aluminum base (diameter 12 cm) |
Automated start of the test once the animal leaves the base and starts climbing over the cylinder (height 25.5 cm) |
5x5mm internal grid |
The output parameters stored in the electronic unit and exportable in Excel |
Include the %climbing |
Number and duration of climbing episodes |
Climbing time |
Maximum and average climbing height |
Total activity while climbing |
Introduction
Benefits
Features | Benefits |
Conductive sensors to track Z movements | Automated measurement of time climbing - distance travelled - time on ceiling - climbing episodes |
Load cell floor | Automated start of the test |
Electronic unit | Controlled by touch screen and with internal memory |
USB and LAN data saving | Easy export into excel and data security |
Specifications
Commands | 4.3 inches touch-screen (Resistive) |
Read-out | 4.3 inches touch-screen (Resistive) PC |
Power Requirement | Universal input 100-240 VAC- 50-60Hz- 200W MAX |
Sound Level | Negligible |
Operating Temperature | 18°C to 25°Ce |
Endpoints and statistics | Max height; Average height; Average distance covered; Total climbing time; Total time on roof; Latency on the single climbing event |
Start/Stop | By Start/Stop button on the climbing cage |
Tare | By Tare button on the climbing cage |
Experiment duration | Max 3600 seconds |
Height sensors | 17 rings + 1 on the roof -capacitive sensors |
Height accuracy | 6mm |
Weight accuracy | 0.1g |
Data Acquisition | Via X-PAD software -included |
Data Portability | By USB flash drive -included or LAN connection |
Data Output | Results table in csv |
Cylinder diameter | 12 cm |
Cylinder Height | 25.5 cm |
Weight | 5Kg |
Shipping Weight | 8Kg |
Packing Dimensions | 36x55x45cm |
Application
Various illnesses and conditions can impact the climbing capabilities of rodents. For instance, neurodegenerative conditions may hinder their motor skills and climbing behavior. Scientists utilize these alterations in climbing behavior as a means to investigate and evaluate potential therapies for such ailments.
In essence, climbing behavior in rats and mice goes beyond being a mere physical activity; it represents a complex aspect of their biology with far-reaching implications for their health, innate conduct, and numerous research domains.
This behavior yields invaluable insights into their physiological makeup, behavioral tendencies, and reactions to environmental and genetic influences, rendering it a crucial element of biological and biomedical investigations involving these animals.
Ethological Perspective
Climbing is an instinctual behavior observed in wild rats and mice. In their natural habitats, they employ climbing as a means to forage for food, evade predators, survey their surroundings, and seek refuge. Analyzing climbing behavior provides researchers with valuable glimpses into their native ecosystems and evolutionary adjustments.Research Models
Rats and mice serve as prevalent model organisms in biomedical research. Their climbing behavior holds relevance across diverse research domains, spanning neuroscience (investigating motor skills and balance), behavioral studies (examining the impacts of pharmaceuticals or genetic alterations), and psychological inquiries (exploring spatial cognition and learning processes).
Environmental Enrichment
Within laboratory environments, offering avenues for climbing represents a crucial facet of environmental enrichment. Rats and mice housed in captivity thrive in enriched surroundings that replicate their native habitats. The inclusion of climbing apparatuses within cages fosters both physical and cognitive stimulation, alleviating stress and enhancing their overall welfare.
Behavior and Physiology
The climbing behavior of rodents mirrors their muscular and skeletal prowess, requiring coordination, power, and nimbleness. Delving into their climbing prowess can offer revelations about their neuromuscular function, equilibrium, and sensory acuity.
Disease Models
Across a spectrum of conditions ranging from stroke and depression to anxiety, musculoskeletal function, Parkinson’s disease, and various forms of pain including neuropathic and cancer-induced discomfort.