Abstract |
Guinea pigs respond to 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) with a complex behavioural syndrome which includes distinctive whole-body jerks (myoclonic jerks). These are species-specific, involve all major muscle groups, are highly rhythmic and can occur with relatively high frequency (1-2/s). Current methods of quantifying the response, which rely on observer ratings are unsatisfactory. We report the development of a fully automated, PC-based system for detecting and analysing myoclonic jerks. Floor-mounted accelerometers generate a movement signal and detection is performed by an algorithm based on a detailed analysis of the topography of myoclonic jerk responses. The system can monitor the output from 10 purpose-built test enclosures and it provides for pseudorandom treatment allocation, flexible control of experimental parameters and automated data output to a spreadsheet which generates appropriate graphs, statistical summaries and data analysis. This robust response provides a useful means of exploring the role of novel 5-HT receptor subtypes in guinea-pig behaviour.
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Authors | P S Lloyd, P D Slade, J P Hatcher, J J Hagan |
Journal | Journal of neuroscience methods
(J Neurosci Methods)
Vol. 64
Issue 2
Pg. 253-62
(Feb 1996)
ISSN: 0165-0270 [Print] Netherlands |
PMID | 8699888
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
- Serotonin Antagonists
- Serotonin
- Methysergide
|
Topics |
- Algorithms
- Analysis of Variance
- Animals
- Computers
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Epilepsies, Myoclonic
(chemically induced)
- Guinea Pigs
- Male
- Methysergide
(pharmacology)
- Serotonin
- Serotonin Antagonists
(pharmacology)
- Software
- Species Specificity
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