Behavior Core

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The Behavior Core is built on a strong foundation of expertise in the fields of rodent sensory testing, pharmacological and optogenetic manipulation of neurons, preclinical early-stage drug discovery and development, and genotyping and colony management. The BC has become a critical resource for both COBRE and non-COBRE-affiliated investigators at the University of New England (UNE), regional and national academic users, and industry partners. Across Phase 3, the Core will continue to build on this diverse user base to create a stable and reliable revenue stream with the goal of becoming a sustainable resource for users requiring high quality in vivo testing. The BC will continue to provide (a) a centralized space for many behavioral assays and surgical procedures; (b) standardized protocols and training between laboratories to reduce variability and increase reproducibility and validity of behavioral assays; (c) advanced training and model development and validation (e.g., alternatives to reflexive nociceptive responses such as affective, cognitive, and pain- suppressed readouts). New developments include expanded space and equipment for independent testing areas for rats and mice to increase throughput and diminish potential confounds of testing both species in the same areas, expanded breeding and genotyping services to support the increased utilization of genetically-modified mouse and rat models, and support for investigators’ utilization of optogenetic approaches in behavioral studies. Continued training of Core research staff will be provided to ensure that the highest level of innovation and support can be provided to Behavior Core users. User feedback from internal and external users has consistently been highly positive. Core personnel have been included as authors on publications and Behavior Core services have been included in NIH grant submissions. Continued investments in its capabilities will allow the Core to provide the latest experimental tools in animal research and help the Core transition to fiscal independence. Noting the value that the COBRE research cores bring to UNE, the institution has outlined a commitment to support the Behavior Core for at least 5 years beyond the end of the Phase 3 funding period. Institutional commitments include dedicated laboratory space and shared costs for equipment purchase, maintenance, and upgrades, a voucher program for Behavior Core use and training, and support of dedicated effort for Core Directors. Such support will foster the growth and expansion of Behavior Core resources required to maintain the high-quality services currently appreciated by current users. The Behavior Core Director has worked closely with neighboring COBRE and INBRE supported research cores at the Maine Medical Research Institute and the Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory to coordinate Behavior Core services with other regional research cores. This coordination will allow the Behavior Core to broaden its user base as it prepares for long-term sustainability.