Rodents are often used to conduct laboratory experiments. And according to a publication from Cornell University, mice are particularly interesting for behavioral and neurological studies, thanks to their genetics and their ability to navigate. Furthermore, researchers have already conducted experiments with mice, using virtual reality. However, the equipment used is generally not optimized. And this is why a group of researchers from Cornell University, led by Matthew Isaacson and Hongyu Chang, decided to create a virtual reality headset, comparable to products like the Meta Quest, but which is optimized for mouse.
MouseGoggles, the VR headset for mice
Called MouseGoggles, the headset was created using affordable, off-the-shelf components, including smartwatch screens and small lenses. “This technology could help reveal the neural activity that underlies spatial navigation and memory function, providing researchers with new insights into disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and its potential treatments.”indicates the university.
During the experiments, the headset is attached to the mouse, which moves on a treadmill. The researchers carried out a series of tests to validate the technology. But most importantly, they checked whether the mice reacted to the visual stimuli displayed on the headset. For example, during these tests, the researchers made the mice believe that a dark spot was approaching them, and it worked. “When we performed this type of test in a typical VR setup with large screens, the mice did not respond at all“, Isaacson said. “But almost all mice jump the first time they see the image with the glasses. They have a huge surprised reaction. They really seemed to think they were being attacked by an imminent predator.”
A technology that could lead to new discoveries
Cornell University cites research on mice with Alzheimer’s disease, which involves studying unexplained reductions in cerebral blood flow. “By unblocking tiny capillaries and increasing this flow, researchers showed that memory function in mice improved within hours”indicates the press release. But new types of equipment are needed to study this memory improvement.
Indeed, the more immersive the virtual reality experience is for the mouse, the more natural the brain functions studied will be. About ten years ago, for this type of study, researchers used bulky and expensive screens which also emit light and sound pollution that could harm the results of the experiment.
Furthermore, after developing this virtual reality headset for mice, researchers at Cornell University now want to create lighter and more mobile headsets for larger rodents, such as rats. In addition to screens and lenses, these headsets are also expected to include a battery and processor.
- Researchers at Cornell University have created a virtual reality mouse headset, using affordable, off-the-shelf components like smartwatch screens
- The goal is to be able to use these headsets to study the behavior of mice
- This device could notably lead to new discoveries concerning Alzheimer’s disease
- And researchers are already planning to create a version of the helmet for rats
