Rotarod Apparatus

Rotarod test is widely used to evaluate drug effects on motor coordination, balance and motor learning in rodents. The principle of this test is that rats or mice are first trained to walk on a rod rotating at a certain speed. Once the animals have learned this, the effect of a test-compound on their motor performance is evaluated. Animals experiencing impaired motor coordination are unable to cope with the rotating rod and will fall from rod when the rotation speed exceeds their motor coordination capacity. When the animal drops from rod safely into its own lane, parameters like time latency to fall, falling rpm and distance traveled are automatically recorded. The Rotarod is controlled by an advanced microprocessor which provides precise timing control and accurate speed regulation. Rotation can be electronically set at a constant speed (2-60 rpm) using a dial on the front panel.