Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 20, 2026
05:05
The Successive Alleys Test of Anxiety in Mice and Rats
Published on: June 17, 2013
Tail-swing behavior: a novel animal model for anxiety
1Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan. ukai@ccmfs.meijo-u.ac.jp
Summary
Diazepam and nitrazepam reduce tail-swing behavior in mice, a response linked to anxiety. This effect was reversed by flumazenil and bicuculline, suggesting a role for GABA(A) receptors.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tail-swing behavior in mice is a potential indicator of anxiety or fear.
- Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of such behaviors is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of various drugs, including diazepam, nitrazepam, desipramine, and haloperidol, on mouse tail-swing behavior.
- To characterize the specific mechanisms underlying diazepam's influence on this behavior.
Main Methods:
- Mice were suspended by their upper bodies to elicit tail-swing behavior.
- The duration of tail-swinging was measured after administration of different drug doses.
- The effects of benzodiazepine receptor antagonists and GABA(A) receptor antagonists on diazepam-induced changes were assessed.
Main Results:
- Diazepam and nitrazepam significantly reduced tail-swing behavior without affecting ambulation or muscle tone.
- Desipramine did not impact tail-swing behavior but reduced ambulation at higher doses.
- Haloperidol decreased both tail-swing behavior and ambulation.
- Flumazenil, beta-CCM, and bicuculline reversed diazepam's effect on tail-swing behavior.
Conclusions:
- Tail-swing behavior in mice is likely associated with anxiety and/or fear.
- The effects of diazepam on tail-swing behavior are mediated through benzodiazepine and GABA(A) receptors.
