A narrative review of behavioral tests across mammalian models in neuroscience

Mammalian models are widely employed in the research of human diseases. Behavioral tests in animals is a critical evaluative approach in scientific research, offering insights into complex disease pathophysiology and facilitating the assessment of novel therapeutic interventions. Currently, behavioral testing paradigms are extensively applied in mammalian research, particularly in rodent models. Compared to rodents, the brains of large mammals exhibit closer anatomical and biochemical homology to the human brain, thereby endowing them with significant value in neuroscience. Numerous neurological disorders have been successfully used large mammals as models, with the widespread application of behavioral testing methods for these species. This review summarizes established behavioral testing methodologies developed for both small and large mammalian species, and discusses their applications, efficacy, and limitations.