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P.I. Michael G. Tordoff Location: Monell Chemical Senses Center, Description: Changes in taste solution acceptance can be
used to identify mice with abnormal physiological states, such as disturbed
glucose or sodium metabolism. Of course, they also identify mice with
taste deficits. Our laboratory uses two methods to screen taste solution
acceptance. The primary method involves two-bottle choice tests, in which
mice receive water in one bottle and a series of taste solutions in the
other for 48-hr each. We have conducted parametric studies to determine
optimal housing conditions, diet, age and drinking tube location for detecting
taste anomalies. We also have normative data on intakes of ~20 different
taste solutions by ~30 mouse strains. The second strategy involves measuring
lick rates of mice during brief-access (3 min or less) to taste solutions.
These brief-access tests are considered "cleaner" than long-term tests
because they provide information about taste responses that are unsullied
by the postingestive effects of the taste solutions. However, a "lickometer"
apparatus is required so only a few mice can be tested simultaneously.
Moreover, they are probably less sensitive than long-term tests. Once
a deficit in taste acceptance is discovered, we have the capability to
characterize its cause, using a number of genetic, physiological, and
behavioral methods, as required. We can draw on the expertise in taste
and smell provided by the Monell Center's staff of ~50 Ph.D.-level chemosensory
scientists (see www.monell.org). Test protocol: Two-bottle preference tests are easy to conduct, and use no special equipment so they can be performed in any laboratory. We can advise about appropriate taste solution concentrations and test conditions, or conduct the tests here inexpensively. We can screen as many as 500 mice simultaneously. A typical test series takes 10 days, and involves measuring intakes of sweet (saccharin), sour (citric acid), bitter (quinine hydrochloride), and salty (NaCl) solutions. Protocols can be adapted to screen more compounds, depending on the time and resources available. Measuring lick rates of mice during brief-access to taste solutions requires a lickometer. We can help you build your own lickometer or test mice-of-interest for you, and help with interpretation of the results. Collaborative Interests: We welcome all tasteful inquiries.
Call or e-mail Mike Tordoff at (215)-898-9680 or tordoff@monell.org.
Funds are available to consult and visit with laboratories interested
in conducting their own tests. References:
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