Mouse phenotyping is a critical translational research approach for evaluating behaviors that are reminiscent of Neurodevelopmental Disorder (NDD) symptoms, e.g., social deficits, communication deficits, learning and memory deficits, and hyperactivity. By providing access to sophisticated and automated testing equipment, expert training and data interpretation capabilities, and experienced technical assistance to help carry out experiments, the MBPC will enable and enhance scientific discovery in animal models of NDDs. The MBPC will ensure the success and in vivo relevance of the current and future Research Project Leaders (RPL) projects and will position the RPLs to be more competitive for future independent funding opportunities.
Dr. Marcelo Lopez directs the MBPC, alongside Dr. Rachel Penrod-Martin. Together they share over 25 years of experience with rodent behavior testing and data analysis. MBPC leaders work with all COBRE in Neurodevelopment and its Disorders (CNDD) investigators to develop preliminary data and/or experimental descriptions during preparation of NIH R01s, manuscripts, etc. The MBPC is also available to the general MUSC research community as a fee-for-service option to allow for studies of genetically modified mice, effects of candidate therapeutics on general behavior, and other research goals. Visit the MUSC Mouse Behavioral Phenotyping Core page for more information.
