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Related Experiment Videos

Assessing nest building in mice.

Robert M J Deacon1

  • 1Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3UD, UK. robert.deacon@psy.ox.ac.uk

Nature Protocols
|April 5, 2007
PubMed
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This study introduces a simple, cost-effective method for measuring mouse nesting behavior using cotton squares and a 5-point scale. This sensitive assay aids in identifying novel behavioral phenotypes in rodents.

Area of Science:

  • Ethology
  • Animal Behavior
  • Rodent Research

Background:

  • Nesting is crucial for rodent thermoregulation, reproduction, and shelter.
  • Previous nesting studies used varied materials and rudimentary scoring systems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present a standardized, objective, and easily implementable protocol for assessing rodent nesting behavior.
  • To establish a sensitive assay for detecting behavioral phenotypes.

Main Methods:

  • Utilizes pressed cotton squares as nesting material in home cages.
  • Employs a definitive 5-point nest-rating scale for nest quality assessment.
  • Includes weighing un-shredded material as an objective measure of nesting ability.

Main Results:

Related Experiment Videos

  • The protocol is simple, cheap, and requires minimal time for setup and assessment (5 minutes setup, 1 minute assessment).
  • Nesting behavior is sensitive to factors like brain lesions, pharmacological agents, and genetic mutations.
  • The method provides a semi-independent, objective assay of nesting ability via residue weight.

Conclusions:

  • This refined nesting assay is a valuable tool for behavioral phenotyping in rodents.
  • The protocol's sensitivity and ease of use make it suitable for identifying subtle behavioral changes.
  • It complements other species-typical behavior tests for comprehensive behavioral analysis.