Forced Swim Test (Porsolt test)

Description

The forced swim test, also known as the Porsolt test, is a well-published and widely used method for screening antidepressant compounds. In this model, rodents are placed in a cylindrical tank filled with water and the time spent immobile versus struggling is measured. Immobility is thought to be an index of a depressive-like state which can be reduced by antidepressant treatment.

Model Systems
  • Mice
  • Rats
Standard Readouts
  • Time spent immobile
Additional Readouts
  • Custom assays
Representative DataClick Image to Enlarge
Time Spent Immobile in Forced Swim Test Model

Mice or rats are placed in an inescapable chamber filled with water and time spent immobile is measured. (**p<0.01; compared to saline)

Daniel Lichtman

Managing Partner