A new method for evaluation of motor deficits in 3-acetylpyridine-treated rats.

We established a novel method for quantitative evaluation of the motor deficits induced by 3-acetylpyridine (3-AP) in rats. 3-AP (75 mg/kg, i.p.) was injected in a time-controlled manner by a following injection of niacinamide (NIA; 300 mg/kg, i.p.). Changes in the motor function were evaluated by measuring the maximal height of vertical jump (MHVJ) to escape from an electrical shock on the foot, as well as ataxic gait. The MHVJ decreased and reached a minimum value 5-7 days after the 3-AP treatment. The close correlation of the MHVJ and the incidence of ataxic gait indicates that the decrease of MHVJ is a useful quantitative index of motor deficits.