Customizable Open-Source Rotating Rod (Rotarod) Enables Robust Low-Cost Assessment of Motor Performance in Mice

Josephine H. Widjaja, Douglas C. Sloan, Joseph A. Hauger, Brian S. Muntean

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

Reliable measurements of motor learning and coordination in mice are fundamental aspects of neuroscience research. Despite the advent of deep-learning approaches for motor assessment, performance testing on a rotating rod (rotarod) has remained a staple in the neuroscientist’s toolbox. Surprisingly, commercially available rotarod instruments offer limited experimental flexibility at a relatively high cost. In order to address these con-cerns, we engineered a highly-customizable, low-budget rotarod device with increased functionality. Here, we present a detailed guide to assemble this rotarod using simple materials. Our apparatus incorporates a varia-tion of interchangeable rod sizes and designs which provides for adjustable testing sensitivity. Moreover, our rotarod is driven by open-source software enabling bespoke acceleration ramps and sequences. Finally, we report the strengths and weaknesses of each rod design following multiday testing on cohorts of C57BL/6 mice. We expect explorations in deviant rod types to provide a foundation for the development of increasingly sensitive models for motor performance testing along with low-budget alternatives for the research community.

Original languageEnglish (US)
JournaleNeuro
Volume10
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 2023

Keywords

  • coordination
  • motor learning
  • mouse behavior
  • open-source tool
  • rotarod

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience

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