MULTICHANNEL SAMPLING SYSTEM FOR FREELY MOVING ANIMALS

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A novel multichannel system called the Sample Collection Turntable (SCT) has been developed for studies of freely-moving laboratory animals. It substantially increases both the amount and quality of information obtainable from animal studies, and it will cost significantly less than currently available, less effective, alternatives. The SCT was designed to provide a stress-free environment for the animals under study. In Phase I of this project, behavioral and physiological measures that are sensitive to chronic stress will be used to determine if this goals has been reached. Preliminary testing has been performed on the SCT in a configuration that makes seven independent fluid connections with the animal: this is not possible with systems that rely on fluid swivels. Samples are collected and stored automatically in a unique device that is capable of unattended operation over periods of several days, and drugs and hormones are delivered automatically without subjecting the animal to the stress of handling and injections. By enabling more information to be obtained from each animal, the SCT can help reduce the overall number of animals needed, in accord with NIH directives. The SCT has additional potential for combining methods such as microdialysis electrophysiology, cyclic voltammetry or automated blood sampling. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION Academic research in Neuroscience, Physiology, Pharmacology and the Behavioral Sciences; R&D of new drugs. The SCT also opens up the possibility of improved and cost effective methods for commercial testing of foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals.