Behavioral testing and preliminary analysis of the hamster visual system

Abstract

The dependence of visual orienting ability in hamsters on the axonal projections from retina to midbrain tectum provides experimenters with a good model for assessing the functional regeneration of this central nervous system axonal pathway. For reliable testing of this behavior, male animals at least 10-12 weeks old are prepared by regular pretesting, with all procedures carried out during the less active portion of the daily activity cycle. Using a sunflower seed attached to a small black ball held at the end of a stiff wire, and avoiding whisker contact, turning movements toward visual stimuli are video recorded from above. Because at the eye level, the nasal-most 30 degrees of the visual field can be seen by both the eyes, this part of the field is avoided in assessments of a single side. Daily sessions consist of ten presentations per side. Measures are frequency of responding and detailed turning trajectories. Complete assessment of the functional return of behavior in this testing paradigm takes 3-6 months to complete.

CNS regeneration after chronic injury using a self-assembled nanomaterial and MEMRI for real-time in vivo monitoring

“…Visually elicited orienting movements were tested repeatedly by presenting a sunflower seed to part of the hamster's visual field. 14,15 Left and right visual fields were tested, and all trials were videotaped with an overhead camera. A trial was counted if a response occurred within 2 seconds of stimulus presentation.…”

“…All adult animals were tested for visually elicited orienting movements, as previously described. 14 Briefly, to elicit orienting movements, sunflower seeds were presented first by hand and later with the aid of a white metal wire on the end of which there was a small, black rubber ball, slotted for holding a seed. Animals were tested 2 to 3 times weekly for 15 days.…”