At Cornell University, a team of researchers has introduced ‘MouseGoggles,’ an innovative VR headset designed for mice. This cutting-edge device incorporates eye-tracking technology and is used to delve deep into their complex behaviors while studying neural activity.
Previously, VR systems for small animals have faced challenges due to size constraints and insufficient immersive capabilities, lacking advanced features like eye-tracking. With the introduction of MouseGoggles, which recently featured in a newly published paper, the Cornell researchers aim to unlock further understanding of the mouse brain—a well-established model in neurological and behavioral research.
The team validated their approach by observing neural activity in the visual cortex, confirming that the imagery was both vivid and precise. They observed enhanced immersion levels through hippocampal recordings and tested responses using reward-based and fear-inducing scenarios with virtual stimuli.
Guided by Chris Schaffer, a professor of biomedical engineering, and Ian Ellwood, an assistant professor in neurobiology and behavior, the goal is to broaden the incorporation of VR techniques in neuroscience.
Matthew Isaacson, a postdoctoral researcher, shared his excitement with Cornell Chronicle, stating, “When it comes to building tools, it’s quite rare to create something that not only surpasses current technology in experimental strength but is also more straightforward and cost-effective to produce. This innovation grants more labs the ability to tap into advanced experimental power within neuroscience.”
A significant aspect of MouseGoggles is its construction from inexpensive, readily available parts, including smartwatch displays and small lenses. The compact VR system makes use of familiar platforms like the Godot game engine and a Raspberry Pi 4, customized with a split-screen display setup.
This breakthrough work by the team may pave the way for the development of lightweight standalone headsets for larger rodents, such as tree shrews and rats. MouseGoggles currently offer a fixed-head setup, utilizing a ball-shaped treadmill to create the sensation of movement. Future enhancements could include the incorporation of additional sensory inputs such as taste and smell, enriching the virtual experience even further.
Schaffer expressed a forward-looking vision in the Cornell Chronicle, saying, “The direction towards a fully sensory VR for mice is promising, especially for studies focused on understanding intricate behaviors. The integration of sensory data with internal motivations like hunger or rest leads to complex decision-making processes in these animals.”
