IR Elevated Zero-Maze for Rats
The Elevated Zero-Maze is an alternative model to the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM). Its circular design provides a smoother transition from closed to open space. The model is based on the rodent's instinctive tendency to explore novel environments and also to avoid unprotected open and elevated spaces. For neurobiological anxiety research.
High quality maze with surface texture selected for best rodent comfort. Provides optimal results with video tracking software (high contrast, non-reflective). Easy to set up, easy to clean.
Elevated zero maze is a modification of the elevated plus maze model of anxiety in rodents, which incorporates both traditional and novel ethological measures in the analysis of drug effects.
The elevated zero-maze constitutes a modification in both design and procedure which aims to improve upon the traditional model by increasing the sensitivity to, and facilitating interpretation of, drug action.
The novel design comprises an elevated annular platform with two opposite, enclosed quadrants and two open quadrants, addresses one potentially problematic issue inherent in the plus-maze design, i.e., the unavoidable ambiguity associated with time spent on the central square, removing any ambiguity in the interpretation and allowing uninterrupted exploration.
The Zero-Maze design, combined with a detailed behavioral analysis, represents a reliable animal model of anxiety.
Background
- The circular design provides the animals with a spontaneous transition as it simply keeps walking on the maze (rather than choosing one of the two open arms in the Elevated Zero Maze)
Durable, optimized for tracking
- High quality, sturdy and durable.
- Engineered by Ugo Basile to optimize video tracking success through our use of high contrast, non-reflective surfaces:
- Selection of high-contrast colors for optimal motion tracking: grey, white, black, (Ugo Basile) light-blue or custom.
- Use of non-reflective, anti-glare surface to reduce reflections and glare. This reduces errors in video tracking.
- Maze surface texture is selected for best rodent comfort – anti-slip and “warm” (rather than a smooth or cold surface that rodents find uncomfortable).
- Supported by 4 metal legs for device stability.
- Easy to assemble, easy to clean.
Feature & Benefit of Y-Maze IR for Rats
- High-contrast colors give optimal results with any Video-Tracking software
- Non-reflecting surface guarantees optimal camera view and no glare
- Available in grey (standard), blue, white, black, custom color
- Reasonably rough “warm” surface texture selected for best rodent comfort, non-slippery
- Reliable and durable mazes, easy to clean and store