Pilot study: A fully-automated system for positive reinforcement training of group-housed non-human primates

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Positive reinforcement training (PRT) represents a valuable refinement of laboratory animal husbandry. Animals are trained using food reward to co-operate with mild procedures such as blood-sampling, and therefore require less restraint and show reduced stress levels than untrained animals. However, widespread implementation of PRT is hindered by a lack of staff time and training skill (Prescott and Buchanan-Smith 2007). We will develop a fully-automated system and protocols for PRT that can be used within group housing environments. Animals are identified via RFID tags and rewarded automatically with food treats for pressing appropriate colour-cued buttons. Such a system represents a refinement of behavioural neuroscience techniques since initial training can be performed without food/fluid restriction, isolation or restraint. In addition, by pre-selecting animals that respond well to this training, the number of animals required for experiments can be reduced. More generally, demonstrating welfare and operational benefits using a simple, affordable technology with established training protocols would make automated PRT highly desirable in large animal facilities, thus facilitating the uptake of PRT techniques in these settings.