Behavioral Genetics of the Mouse

The first volume in the new Cambridge Handbooks in Behavioral Genetics series, Behavioral Genetics of the Mouse provides baseline information on normal behaviors, essential in both the design of experiments using genetically modified or pharmacologically treated animals and in the interpretation and analyses of the results obtained. The book offers a comprehensive overview of the genetics of naturally occurring variation in mouse behavior, from perception and spontaneous behaviors such as exploration, aggression, social interactions and motor behaviors, to reinforced behaviors such as the different types of learning. Also included are numerous examples of potential experimental problems, which will aid and guide researchers trying to troubleshoot their own studies. A lasting reference, the thorough and comprehensive reviews offer an easy entrance into the extensive literature in this field, and will prove invaluable to students and specialists alike.

Wim E. Crusio is a Research Director at the French National Research Council (CNRS). With over 35 years experience in mouse behavioral neurogenetics and the phenotyping of mouse behavior, his recent interests cover mouse models of depression, autism and Fragile X Syndrome.

Frans Sluyter is an expert in (wild) house mouse behavior and neurogenetics. His interests range from aggression, addiction, depression and (stress) coping strategies to gene expression profiles and consciousness.

Robert Gerlai has held numerous positions in academia, biotechnology and the pharmaceutical research industry and is currently a professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Toronto. He studies biological and genetic mechanisms of behavior using reverse and forward genetic and psychopharmacological methods in mice and zebrafish.

Susanna Pietropaolo is currently a researcher at the French National Research Council (CNRS). She is an expert in the behavioral analysis of the laboratory mouse, with a special interest in inter-specific social behaviors. Her recent research focuses on mouse models of social dysfunction, including autism and Fragile X Syndrome.