MultiCage Arena for training head-fixed mice

MultiCage Training Arena

NTR000257-04

Scale up your imaging or electrophysiology experiments in awake mice. The MultiCage Training Arena allows you to train three mice simultaneously, increasing throughput and reducing prep time for experiments.

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      Using the same setup for training and testing can slow down your workflow. Disassembling the experimental setup during training and reassembling it for recordings wastes time. Plus, training and recording sequentially drags out the process. The MultiCage Training Arena solves these issues by serving as a dedicated training apparatus, allowing you to train three head-fixed mice simultaneously.

      Key benefits:

      • Boosts training throughput and cuts down run-up time to experiments.
      • Eliminates the need to move the Mobile HomeCage in and out of your setup.
      • Simplifies the management of individual training schedules.
      • Offers greater flexibility with a dedicated training device.

      The video above shows the MultiCage with the old cages. We have since updated the cage design and manufacturing method to make them more cost-effective and user-friendly. Learn more about the new cages in our cage guide.

      Can I convert the Mobile HomeCage Large into a training arena?

      Yes, all you need is a MultiCage upgrade kit.

      Can I use the MultiCage for imaging and electrophysiological recordings in awake mice?

      Yes, just remove the bridge with the double head fixation. If the 180 mm cage feels too small, you can upgrade to a larger carbon fiber or foam cage (e.g., 290 mm or 325 mm).

      Can I add locomotion tracking to the MultiCage?

      Yes, with a locomotion tracking upgrade kit. It will allow you to track one head-fixed mouse. Unfortunately, tracking three simultaneously is not yet possible.

      How do I select the right cage wall height?

      Generally, taller walls help reduce stress by shielding mice from external stimuli, creating a cozier environment. However, mice quickly adapt to lower walls with minimal extra training. We recommend using the same wall height for training and experiments to ensure consistency.

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      Technical specifications

      • Dimensions: 720 x 570 x 155 mm
      • Floating cages: ø 180 x 60 mm, ø 180 x 40 mm, or ø 180 x 20 mm
      • Weight: 13.3 kg
      • Materials: Aluminum, stainless steel, carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (cages)

      Airflow requirements

      The MultiCage requires 250 L/min airflow at 20 kPa (compared to the Mobile HomeCage Large’s 150 L/min). Some central air supplies and portable pumps may fall short, especially if you’ve upgraded from the Mobile HomeCage Large and expected the same air source to work. Fortunately, there’s an easy, low-cost solution that takes less than an hour and minimal materials. Download the DIY fix below:

      MultiCage Training Arena kit includes:

      • Air dispenser
      • Two sets of towers (i.e. four towers)
      • Bridge with single head fixation (standard, fUS, or Levelt clamp with straight neck)
      • Second bridge with two head fixations (two standard, fUS, or Levelt clamps with straight necks)
      • Three carbon fiber-reinforced plastic cages (ø 180 x 60 mm, ø 180 x 40 mm, or ø 180 x 20 mm)
      • Fifteen head plates (any model)
      • Hose (12 mm diameter, 3 m length) for air source connection

      Please note, that all three floating cages included with the MultiCage Training Arena are trackable (they have magnets embedded in the bottom), but tracking requires an upgrade. Only one cage can be tracked at a time.