Grip strength in 8 inbred founder strains of the Collaborative Cross (2020)
German Mouse Clinic and Department of Infection Genetics, HZI
With: Hrabě de Angelis M, Fuchs H, Gailus-Durner V, Becker L, Klopstock T, Lengger C, Kollmus H, Schughart K
The grip strength meter is calibrated according to manufacturer's instructions.
Mice are removed individually from their homecage by gripping the base of the tail between the thumb and forefinger.
Forelimb measurement: Each mouse is lowered over the grid keeping the torso horizontal and allowing only the forepaws to attach to the grid. The mouse is gently pulled back by its tail ensuring the mouse grips the top portion of the grid and the torso remains horizontal. The maximal grip strength is recorded. This step is repeated 2 more times to give a total of 3 trials.
Forelimb/hindlimb measurement: Each mouse is lowered over the grid keeping the torso parallel with the grid and allowing all 4 paws to attach to the grid. The mouse is gently pulled back by its tail ensuring the torso remains parallel with the grid. Maximal grip strength is recorded. This step is repeated 2 more times to give a total of 3 trials.
Body weight is measured so that grip strength can be normalized for each mouse.