Work

TST Score Helper: An Open-Source Graphical User Interface for Assisted Manual Scoring of the Tail Suspension Test

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The tail suspension test (TST) is a well-known rodent behavioral test that assesses stress and depressive-like behavior. While several automatic tail suspension test scoring programs have emerged, many researchers still prefer a manual scoring method for accuracy and reliability. However, manual scoring can introduce significant errors. Thus, in this work, we present a novel graphical user interface that assists in the manual scoring process to minimize possibility for errors. The GUI, which we refer to as "TST Score Helper," minimizes errors through consolidation of the TST scoring procedure into a single cohesive program. Further, a rescore mode enhances rigor by enabling comparison of two different scorers' mobility status timelines and rereview of periods of disagreement. In a cohort of 64 male and 45 female mice subject to closed head injury or sham injury, we demonstrate the challenges with manual scoring and we characterize performance of the TST Score Helper program. The results show how this program can reduce sources of manual scoring error and improve the fidelity of results.

Source: eNeuro

DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0318-25.2026

Authors: Sydney E. Triplett, Chenxing Li, Paul Sanz, Shasha Bai, Levi B. Wood, Erin M. Buckley

Institutions: Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

Language: English

Topic: Treatment of Major Depression

Subfield: Pharmacology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,925