2023-12-11 15:34:00
To better study the reactions and brain activity of mice, American researchers have developed a miniaturized virtual reality headset. This system, much more affordable and compact than traditional devices, could facilitate neurobiology research.
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Researchers from Northwestern University in the United States have just developed a virtual reality system… for mice! The idea may seem preposterous, but it is not new. Scientists very often use a simulated environment to analyze the behavior and brain activity of mice, but usually it is a system with large screens. This method is limited because the content is two-dimensional and does not fill the entire field of vision of the mouse, which sees the laboratory around the screens.
In an article published in the journal Neuron, the researchers describe a device that is more akin to a virtual reality headset. Called iMRSIV, or Miniature Rodent Stereo Illumination VRthe device is composed of two lentilslentils and two screens that surround the mouse. This allows them to see the virtual scene in three dimensions with a 180-degree field of view for an immersive experience.
A more immersive system for mice and more accessible for researchers
Rather than being worn like a headset, the system is fixed and the mouse is placed on a conveyor beltconveyor belt. The researchers used iMRSIV to simulate aerial attacks by predators and analyze the mice’s response, which was impossible with traditional simulated environments. The next step will be to test the mice when they are in the role of the predator, for example chasing a fly.
With traditional devices, mice need a lot of training to perform tasks. The researchers reported that the mice learned significantly faster due to more natural interaction with the simulated environment. In addition, this system is smaller and less expensive than traditional simulators, which should make this type of neurobiology research much more accessible.
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