Efficient testing of motor function in spinal cord injured rats

In experimental spinal cord injury studies, animal models are widely used t o examine anatomical and functional changes after different treatments and lesion types. A variety of behavioral paradigms exists in the literature, b ut definitions and criteria for motor performance vary considerably. In thi s study, we examined the outcome and relation of tests such as the BBB open field locomotion scorer footprint analysis, kinematic analysis, placing re sponse, grid walk and narrow beam crossing following two different lesion t ypes. The information obtained was used to design an efficient and reliable testing strategy, which includes a broad spectrum of parameters to enhance sensitivity. This approach should help to standardize modular testing proc edures across different laboratories working on spinal cord injury. (C) 200 0 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.