Why These Researchers Invented a Virtual Reality Headset for Mice ?

© Cornell University

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 orient themselves. In addition, researchers have already conducted experiments with mice, using virtual reality. However, the equipment used is generally not optimized. And this is the reason 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 mice.

MouseGoggles, the VR headset for mice

Called MouseGoggles, this headset was created using affordable and commercially available components, including smartwatch screens and small lenses. “This technology could reveal the neural activity underlying spatial navigation and memory function, giving researchers new insights into disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and its potential treatments,” the university said.

During the experiments, the headset is attached to the mouse, which moves on a treadmill. The researchers conducted a series of tests to validate the technology. But most importantly, they tested whether the mice responded to visual stimuli displayed on the headset. For example, in these tests, the researchers tricked the mice into thinking that a dark spot was approaching them, and it worked. “When we ran this type of test in a typical VR setup with large screens, the mice didn't respond at all“, Isaacson said. “But almost all the mice jump the first time they see the image with the glasses. They have a huge startle reaction. They really seemed to think they were being attacked by an imminent predator.”

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 that flow, the researchers showed that memory function in mice improved within hours,”, the statement said. 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 that also emitted light and noise pollution that could harm the results of the experiment.

In addition, 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 should also include a battery and a processor.

• Researchers at Cornell University have created a virtual reality headset for mice, using affordable, off-the-shelf components like smartwatch screens
• The goal is to use these headsets to study the behavior of mice
• This device could lead to new discoveries regarding Alzheimer's disease
• And the researchers are already planning to create a version of the headset for rats

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