Genetic variation in the psychomotor stimulant properties of cocaine in Mus musculus.

Rationale: The psychomotor stimulant properties of drugs are argued to be a key feature of abuse liability. Several studies, primarily using inbred strains of mice, have demonstrated genetic variation in the psychomotor stimulant properties of cocaine. As of yet, however, no gene(s) has been identified which influences this phenotype.

Different data from different labs: lessons from studies of gene-environment interaction.

It is sometimes supposed that standardizing tests of mouse behavior will ensure similar results in different laboratories. We evaluated this supposition by conducting behavioral tests with identical apparatus and test protocols in independent laboratories. Eight genetic groups of mice, including equal numbers of males and females, were either bred locally or shipped from the supplier and then tested on six behaviors simultaneously in three laboratories (Albany, NY; Edmonton, AB; Portland, OR).