This innovative new system allows researchers to clearly identify cognitive malfunctions and defects in a more normal social environment particularly important when working with genetically modified strains. Search for Product in current catalog
This innovative new system allows researchers to clearly identify cognitive malfunctions and defects in a more normal social environment particularly important when working with genetically modified strains. The system includes a large standard rat cage containing four learning corners. Animals are identified by implanted transponders when approaching and entering a test corner. Each learning corner contains a conventional operant conditioning unit. Mice can obtain a liquid reward triggered by nose pokes from either one or both water bottles contained in each corner. Conditioning is controlled by light diodes in several colors, air puff punishment and sensors such as lickometers and infrared motion/proximity detectors. Depending on the complexity of the learning schedules, selectable on a controlling computer, each IntelliCage can handle the learning behavior of up to 16 mice simultaneously. Each controlling computer can be connected to as many as eight IntelliCages at once. The system operates continually during days and weeks, typically requiring cleaning only once a week. Progress of the experiments can be followed online from the office via internet if required. At the end of the experiment, data packages are sent to an analysis computer selected by the user and data are extracted in a format suited for import into standard statistical software packages. IntelliCage records and tests a wide range of behavioral abilities: exploration, approach/avoidance, spatial preference, spatial patrolling (including short-term spatial memory tasks), spatial avoidance, and even temporo-spatial learning. Individual mice are easily trained to work in a permanently assigned corner and can be subjected to long/lasting operant conditioning schedules such as fixed ratio and DRL schedules. The IntelliCage unit allows simultaneous monitoring of up to 16 mice depending on the task. Experimental and control animals can be housed in the same or in a separate cage. The included controller and software allow upgrading to a maximum of eight cages (64 to 128 mice) as demands change. This allows for the most flexible system possible.
Interleukin-12-mediated induction of systemic immunity in the perihpery and recruitment of activated T cells into the brain produce limited antitumor effects compared with interleukin-2
IntelliCage System
