Description
Hot Cold Plate Features | |
Acrylic Wall: Diameter 20 cm Ć 25 cm | |
Volume: Depth: 35 cm Ć Width: 30 cm Ć Height: 23 cm | |
Temperature setting range: -5ā to 65ā with 0.01ā precision |
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Features
- Temperature setting range: -10Ā°C to 80Ā°C, adjustment step 0.1Ā°C
- Temperature control error: <Ā±0.2Ā°C
- Time control mode: panel buttons
- Time display: 0.01 seconds to 1999.99 seconds
- Timing error: 0.01 seconds
- Warming time: Approx 2 min (0Ā°C to 55Ā°C at 20Ā° C)
- Cooling time: 5 minutes ( 20 ā to 0 ā, or 0 ā to -10 ā)
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Introduction
The Hot/Cold Plate Test combines elements of both the Hot Plate and Cold Plate tests, which are typically conducted separately using distinct devices. This integrated test subjects animals to either harmful hot temperatures or benign cold temperatures to trigger nocifensive reactions. The Cold Plate component is particularly useful for evaluating cold-induced hyperalgesia and allodynia, and for assessing unilateral pain sensitivity. By merging these two types of pain assessments into a single apparatus, researchers can conveniently compare responses under both conditions and streamline their testing process.
The Hot/Cold Plate apparatus features a temperature-regulated surface that can be adjusted to maintain a constant temperature or to gradually increase or decrease in temperature. When exposed to these temperatures, animals may exhibit various nocifensive behaviors, such as jumping, paw licking, or stamping. Notably, hind paw responses like withdrawal and licking are often more reliable indicators of nociception compared to forepaw reactions, as the forepaws are typically engaged in exploration and grooming activities during the test.
Additionally, another temperature-based assay available is the Thermal Gradient Test.
Apparatus and Equipment
The Hot/Cold Plate apparatus features a transparent glass cylinder paired with a temperature-controlled metal plate. The metal floor of the plate is adjustable, allowing precise temperature regulation. The glass cylinder, with a diameter of 24 cm and a height of 29 cm, confines the subject to the plate, preventing it from escaping while ensuring a clear, unobstructed view for observation.
Training Protocol
Adjust the metal plate to a temperature of 5Ā°C. Introduce the subject to the testing environment and provide an acclimation period of 30 to 60 minutes. After the subject has adjusted to the test area, position it on the apparatus and start the timer without delay. Each session should continue for up to 5 minutes. If multiple trials are conducted, ensure there is a minimum 10-minute break between each one.
Set the metal plate to a maximum temperature between 52Ā°C and 55Ā°C. Introduce the subject into the testing area and allow it to acclimate for 30 to 60 minutes. Once the subject has settled in, place it on the hot plate and start the timer immediately. Observe and remove the subject as soon as it displays a nocifensive reaction, such as hind paw licking, flicking, vocalization, or jumping. If no response is observed within 30 seconds, promptly remove the subject and end the test. Multiple trials may not yield additional useful information.
For enhanced observation and tracking, consider using a video analysis system such as Noldus EthoVision XT.
Data Analysis
Data from the Hot/Cold Plate test is typically clear and direct. The primary measurement is the latency period, which is the time elapsed from when the subject is placed on the plate until the first indication of nocifensive behavior, such as paw licking or jumping. Additionally, other relevant data include the duration of the nocifensive response and the temperature at which such behaviors occur, especially in tests where the temperature is incrementally increased.
Strengths & Limitations
The Hot/Cold Plate Test integrates both hot and cold stimuli into one device. This setup enables the evaluation of an animal’s sensitivity to cold temperatures, which helps in assessing conditions like cold-induced hyperalgesia and allodynia. Unlike the hot plate test alone, the cold plate component allows for the measurement of unilateral pain. The ability to adjust the rate of temperature changeāboth cooling and heatingāfacilitates the observation of how different thermal stimuli provoke nocifensive responses. This apparatus is also valuable for determining the effectiveness of analgesic treatments.
Performance on the Hot/Cold Plate Test can be influenced by the subject’s anxiety due to the confined testing environment. Additionally, the opportunity for free movement on the plate during the trial may result in inaccurate observations of nocifensive responses. Using a constant temperature setup might also be less effective, as subjects may adapt their behavior over time, potentially leading to reduced response times. Furthermore, the subject’s gender could play a role in how they respond during the test.
Summary & Key Points
- Hot/Cold plate apparatus allows investigation of nocifensive responses to cold or hot temperatures within a single apparatus.
- Hot/Cold Plate test is one of the many nociception tests available to test for pain response behaviors.
- Hind paw withdrawal or licking is taken as the best indication of nocifensive response to thermal pain in hot plate test.
- Hot/Cold Plate test is commonly used in evaluating the effectiveness of analgesics.
- The cold plate allows assessment of cold-induced hyperalgesia and allodynia