Adapting Mouse Behavioral Assays for Use with Infectious Agents

Introduction: Behavioral assays, such as those evaluating memory, motor coordination, balance, pain response, and anxiety, are valuable tools for studies of neuropsychological function when applied to rodent models. Most behavioral research focuses on non-infectious models of altered neurocognitive states such as dementia, drug addiction, and stroke. Behavioral assays are often large, costly, and challenging to disinfect, resulting in safety concerns when considering the translation of these techniques to infectious models of disease. As more infections are recognized for their potential to cause long-term neurological complications, we must make behavioral research accessible to infectious settings. Objective: We aimed to develop and verify a behavioral arena suitable for biohazardous settings. Methods: We used open-source software to create low-cost versions of four common behavioral platforms: elevated plus maze, novel object recognition, von Frey test, and tail flick test. Leveraging 3D printing and widely available, cost-effective materials, we constructed durable and easily disinfected testing arenas. To facilitate data collection under containment conditions, we incorporated a sealed wireless camera and tablet. Key Findings: We successfully executed an inexpensive animal behavioral arena for use in safe containment settings. Each apparatus is modular, easily disinfected, does not disrupt BSC airflow, and is low cost. Conclusions: The arena of behavioral assays is readily available for use in studying long-term sequelae of infectious agents in mouse models of disease. These provide a safe tool for advancements in the disciplines of infectious disease and biosafety.