Source Paper
Electroacupuncture promotes BDNF-dependent neurogenesis via microglial reprogramming in a chronic stress model
Zhang L, Wei T, Liu X, Zhang L, Wang D et al.
Chin Med • 2026
Tail Suspension Test
Objective: Assess desperation behaviors by measuring immobility time of mice under uninvited conditions
Gather these items before starting the experiment. Check off items as you prepare.
Materials1
not specified • not specified
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Protocol Steps
Animal handling and acclimation
Handle mice for three consecutive days to reduce handling stress, then transfer to testing room 1 hour in advance for acclimation
View evidence from paper
“all mice were handled for three consecutive days to reduce handling stress”
Tail preparation and suspension setup
Wrap a piece of tape around the tail, 1 cm from the tip of tail, and suspend the mouse at a height of 20-25 cm
View evidence from paper
“tail was suspended at a height of 20–25 cm by wrapping a piece of tape around the tail, 1 cm from the tip”
Suspension test
Suspend each mouse with the end of its tail for 6 minutes in a dark box with little background, ensuring the mouse is undisturbed throughout
View evidence from paper
“Each mouse was suspended with the end of its tail for 6 min in a dark box with little background”
Video recording and immobility measurement
Record duration of immobility using video camera, monitoring during the last 4 minutes of suspension
View evidence from paper
“Duration of immobility, recorded by a video camera (VisuTrack, shanghai, XR-VT), was monitored during the last 4 min of suspension”