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Cold testing in rats serves as a crucial tool in pain research, particularly in studying neuropathic pain and assessing the effectiveness of drugs. For cold analysis in preclinical studies, the acetone test and cold plate are widely used and integral to CNS research. Recently, we introduced a novel dry ice stimulation method, comparing its efficacy alongside standardized assays.
New Method: Dry Ice Test
During the dry ice test, rats are positioned on a glass surface, and dry ice is applied near the hind plantar surface of the paw without direct contact to prevent frostbite. Researchers measure the latency of the rat's response, such as lifting, licking, or shaking the paw. This method is noted for its robustness, reproducibility, and safety, as it elicits a clear response from the rat without subjectivity, making it a preferred choice for cold behavior assessments in research.
Acetone Test
In the acetone test, a drop of acetone is applied to the hind paw of the rat to induce a cold stimulus. Researchers then record the time the rat spends licking, shaking its paw, or engaging in fast stepping behavior. This method provides a direct response to the cold stimulus but can be subjective in interpretation.
Cold Plate
The cold plate method involves placing rats on a metal plate cooled to a specific temperature (0 - 4 degrees Celsius). Researchers observe the latency of the rat's response, such as lifting, licking, or shaking their paws. One drawback is that not all hind limb plantar touches are controlled, leading to less clarity in reactions.
Comparison of cold-test methods
For more detailed information on our methods, feel free to contact us here or set up a short call with our scientific team here.