Q: When will the Core be fully set up and running?
A: We are now fully running in both Wolstein and ARC buildings. However, due to the smaller size of the Wolstein facility we are somewhat restricted in the amount of tests that we can offer but we provide basic phenotyping, and some memory & learning, motor and anxiety test. For specifics on the tests that are currently offered please contact the Core Director.

Q: Do I have to be a faculty member at Case Western Reserve University / University Hospitals to use the services of the Core?
A: No!.The process involves acquiring ARC approval prior to shipping. Non-CWRU users will be required to fill in a Non-standard vendor form in addition to the behavior order form. Health status records will be solicited from the investigator’s ARC facility and reviewed by the ARC veterinaries. If the animals are deemed clean, they can be transfered to CWRU and housed in clean quarantine for typically 2-3 weeks (some may not need to be quarantined and some may need up to 4 weeks). Then they will be transfered to the Core housing and tested. If animals are found to be “dirty” they will not be able to be tested in our facilities. Some additional charges apply (e.g. housing/per diem charges and administrative fees for the transfer and billing).

Q: Can the Core provide the animals for my research?
A: Yes. Under certain circumstances we can assist a client in arranging the purchase of the animals needed for their research. The charges for purchasing animals and sentinel testing will be factored into the final invoice.

Q: Do I need IACUC approval to carry out these tests?
A: No! The Core has an approved IACUC protocol that covers all of the behavioral tests described in our website. Once we have received the Behavior Order from we fax the front page of the form to the IACUC office. Because, the P.I. IACUC protocol number is on the front page, the IACUC office will have a record on file that behavioral testing is being carried out in such animals. Therefore, the PI will not have to do ANYTHING with regards to IACUC approval for behavioral testing.

Q: Can I transfer animals from the Wolstein to the SOM ARC and then return them back to the Wolstein after testing?
A: Animals located in the ARC can be generally transferred to the Wolstein Bldg for testing and vice versa the Core will assist in all the transfers. If the investigator does not require the animals back after behavioral testing, the core will take care of euthanasia, we are also considering on offering tissue collection services. Animals can be transfered back to the Wolstein if re-quarantined.