At last, researchers say theyve found a way for lab mice to easily use virtual reality goggles.
Sending mice into virtual reality isnt a new concept.
Ideally, VR allows scientists to simulate naturalistic environments for mice under more controlled conditions.
An illustration of the iMRSIV VR setup, with an “overhead threat” projected into the top field of view.Illustration: Dom Pinke/Northwestern University
But even the most advanced systems today are clunky.
The mice can also run in place thanks to a treadmill.
After the first session, they could already complete the task.
Sadly, the mice aren’t really wearing the goggles like this.Image: @rita
They knew where to run and looked to the right places for rewards.
Traditional VR systems are pretty complicated, Dombeck said.
Theyre expensive, and theyre big.
The actual iMRSIV system.Image: Dom Pinke/Northwestern University
They require a big lab with a lot of space.
This could make VR technology more available to other labs.
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