Behavioral

Genetically-altered mutant mice created using transgenic and gene-targeting approaches may develop significant behavioral abnormalities solely as a result of their induced mutation. The Mouse Behavioral Assessment Laboratory (MBAL) is a full service, teaching and research laboratory dedicated to assisting research scientists in identifying and characterizing their mouse lines with behavioral abnormalities which often are either too subtle or are otherwise difficult to recognize by laboratory personnel or animal care staff.  Several primary behavioral tests are available for “high-throughput” screening of mutants to quickly and efficiently detect activity, memory, motivation, learning, cognitive, motor ability (strength), and sensory-related phenotypes. Once defined using a primary screening approach, abnormalities can then be fully characterized by applying secondary and tertiary examinations.  With a technically-qualified and expert staff and adjacent to dedicated mouse housing, the MBAL has been established in designated laboratories containing the essential equipment and resources for performing tests requiring both hands-on operator attention, animal handling, or long-term observation, as well as those that are partially or fully automated, computer monitored and/or controlled, and involve video observation and response data recording. Computational, interpretative, and consulting services and collaborations are all available.  All procedures are performed on a recharge basis and by grant-supported research collaborations.  Students and trainees are welcome to participate at any and all levels of laboratory activities.

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Please contact MBAL@ucdavis.edu with additional questions or concerns regarding behavioral testing.