Video image analysis of behavior by microcomputer: categorization of turning and locomotion after 6-OHDA injection into the substantia nigra.

The automated video image analyzing system (VIAS) measures locomotion in meters and turning behavior of rats by digitized video image and microcomputer evaluation. To measure turning behavior the number of 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 and complete turns are recorded. The turns are classified in different diameter classes. To test the validity of this system rats were administered unilateral 6-OHDA lesions of the substantia nigra and were observed by human rater and VIAS in parallel. Correlation coefficients for the data obtained by both methods were r = 0.98 for locomotion, r = 0.93 for half turns with diameter greater than or equal to 30 cm. Recovery from lesion-induced turning of animals with striatal dopamine depletion of 81.4% to 87.2% was described in detail by VIAS with respect to the diameter of the turns. It is concluded that VIAS provides a potent tool for the analysis of turning behavior and locomotion.