Acta Pharmacologica Sinica 2005 January; 26 (1): 39-45; doi: 10.1111/j.1745-7254.2005.00001.x

Aim: To investigate the validity and sensitivity of an automatic movement detection system developed by our laboratory for the formalin test in rats.

Methods: The effects of systemic morphine and local anesthetic lidocaine on the nociceptive behaviors induced by formalin subcutaneously injected into the hindpaw were examined by using an automated movement detection system and manual measuring methods.

Results: Formalin subcutaneously injected into the hindpaw produced typical biphasic nociceptive behaviors (agitation). The mean agitation event rate during a 60-min observation period increased linearly following increases in the formalin concentration (0.0%, 0.5%, 1.5%, 2.5%, and 5%, 50 µL). Systemic application of morphine of different doses (1, 2, and 5 mg/kg) 10-min prior to formalin injection depressed the agitation responses induced by formalin injection in a dose-dependent manner, and the  antinociceptive effect induced by the largest dose (5 mg/kg) of morphine was significantly antagonized by systemic application of the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone (1.25 mg/kg). Local anesthetic lidocaine (20 mg/kg) injected into the ipsilateral ankle subskin 5-min prior to formalin completely blocked the agitation response to formalin injection. These results were comparable to those obtained from manual measure of the incidence of flinching or the duration time of licking/biting of the injected paw.

Conclusion: These data suggest that this automated movement detection system for formalin test is a simple, validated measure with good pharmacological sensitivity suitable for discovering novel analgesics or investigating central pain mechanisms.

Keywords: pain measurement; automated movement detection system; formalin test; analgesia; lidocaine; rats