About CRAS
Cylinder rearing is a behavioral test in neurological research to assess motor function in rodents. By placing a rodent in a transparent cylinder and observing its vertical movements, researchers can evaluate motor coordination, balance, and sensory processing. This test is sensitive to subtle changes in motor function due to neurological disorders or injuries, making it valuable for studying brain function and damage. Researchers use cylinder rearing to assess the impact of interventions like drugs, genetic modifications, or therapies on motor recovery and brain plasticity
Need Statement
Given the inefficiency and inconsistency of current assessments in rodent stroke models,
researchers studying brain damage require a standardized and reliable assessment method to
enhance stroke modeling
Project Scope
The cylinder rearing automation system is designed to revolutionize the evaluation of rodent
stroke models by providing a standardized and automated assessment platform. This system
aims to address the inefficiencies and inconsistencies currently plaguing research in brain
damage by integrating advanced technologies that ensure precise and reliable data collection.
It is important that lighting provides proper contrast for movement capture and background
calibration. The final system should allow for multi-mouse stackability, and a detachable
multi-camera system. The project will deliver the hardware for an automated system,
including documentation, that not only records and analyzes rodent behavior accurately but
also ensures the environment is optimal for each test by December 20, 2024