Experimental Assessment of Mouse Sociability Using an Automated Image Processing Approach

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Behavioral Science
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Mice are essential model organisms for preclinical drug testing, particularly for compounds targeting social behavior.
• Quantifying mouse sociability is critical for assessing the efficacy of pro-social drugs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a standardized, three-session method for quantifying mouse sociability.
• To establish automated and semi-automated behavioral analysis for social interaction studies.

Main Methods:

• A three-session apparatus was used, involving acclimation, stimulus mouse interaction through an enclosure, and direct social interaction.
• Automated video analysis was employed to detect mouse movement, identify the nose, and quantify transitions and proximity.
• Sociability measures included compartment transitions, time spent near an enclosed stimulus mouse, and direct social approaches/avoidances.

Main Results:

• The method successfully quantifies mouse mobility, preference for social stimuli, and direct social interactions.
• Automated detection of the mouse nose and tail facilitated accurate behavioral measurement in early sessions.
• Session III allowed for manual classification of social approaches, complementing automated measures.

Conclusions:

• The presented method offers a robust and reproducible approach to assess mouse sociability.
• This standardized protocol can enhance the reliability of preclinical drug screening for sociability-enhancing agents.
• Further refinement of automated analysis for direct social interactions is warranted.