Phenotyping complex behaviours: assessment of circadian control and 5-choice serial reaction learning in the mouse

Currently, the behavioural phenotyping of mutant strains is restricted by t he paucity of tests for the cognitive capabilities of mice. Most of the par adigms at present available such as the water maze or passive avoidance are dependent upon an aversive component for conditioning and as a consequence the data can often be confounded by the non-specific effects of stress. Th e development of mutant or transgenic mouse models of human diseases that e ffect cognitive function will require this confound to be overcome. Here we highlight the value of using two apparently different paradigms, one explo ring circadian control and the other visuospatial attention. The first prov ides an example of an elicited behaviour while the second requires learning , neither is aversive in nature. Interestingly, the data from each strength ens the interpretation of both. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights r eserved.