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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Assessment of Motor Balance and Coordination in Mice using the Balance Beam

Assessment of Motor Balance and Coordination in Mice using the Balance Beam

Published on: March 10, 2011

Motor coordination and balance in rodents.

R J Carter¹, J Morton, S B Dunnett

¹University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.

Current Protocols in Neuroscience

|April 23, 2008

Summary

This study details three key methods for assessing rodent motor coordination and balance. These techniques, including rotarod, beam walking, and footprint analysis, are crucial for evaluating drug effects and animal models.

Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Animal Behavior
Pharmacology

Background:

Assessing motor coordination and balance is vital in preclinical research.
Standardized methods are needed for evaluating drug effects and animal models.
Existing techniques require clear protocols for consistent application.

Purpose of the Study:

To describe established protocols for measuring motor coordination and balance in rodents.
To provide a comprehensive guide for researchers using rotarod, beam walking, and footprint analysis.
To facilitate the characterization of motor phenotypes in various animal models.

Main Methods:

Rotarod test: measures latency to fall from a rotating rod.
Beam walking test: assesses traversal of beams of varying width and length.

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Measuring Motor Coordination in Mice

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Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Assessment of Motor Balance and Coordination in Mice using the Balance Beam

Assessment of Motor Balance and Coordination in Mice using the Balance Beam

Published on: March 10, 2011

Measuring Motor Coordination in Mice

Measuring Motor Coordination in Mice

Published on: May 29, 2013

Behavioral Assessment of the Aging Mouse Vestibular System

Behavioral Assessment of the Aging Mouse Vestibular System

Published on: July 11, 2014

Footprint analysis: analyzes gait parameters from animal footprints.

Main Results:

These three methods are widely used and effective for assessing motor function in mice and rats.
The protocols are adaptable for characterizing transgenic models, lesion effects, and aging.
Modifications for rat assessment are noted, ensuring broad applicability.

Conclusions:

Rotarod, beam walking, and footprint analysis are essential tools for motor function assessment in rodents.
These methods support the evaluation of experimental manipulations and genetic modifications.
Standardized protocols enhance the reliability and comparability of research findings.