SensiTrak: Automated Assessment of Forelimb Sensation

项目摘要 在第一阶段STTR项目中，Vulintus公司，与哥伦比亚大学合作， 开发和测试“SensiTrak”，这是一种自动化的高通量行为系统， 精细测量啮齿动物模型的体感功能。目前常用的方法 在啮齿动物模型中测量躯体感觉功能通常依赖于对 不舒服或疼痛的刺激。这些测试可能会对动物造成压力，同时也会产生 测量响应的高度可变性和纵向模型中的重复测试甚至可能 导致慢性疼痛状态。为了更好地理解生理学和 触觉和本体感觉的感知，研究人员需要一个现代的，现成的评估 系统管理和量化训练，意志行为。SensiTrak将满足这些需求 通过支持与动物的复杂的机电反馈互动， 可互换的任务模块、行为外设和开源行为软件。 第一阶段的工作将侧重于最后确定和台架测试的Sensitrak原型设计， 验证测试与大鼠模型的体感特异性损害。

Project Abstract In this Phase I STTR project, Vulintus, Inc., in collaboration with Columbia University, proposes to develop and test ‘SensiTrak,’ an automated, high-throughput behavioral system designed to finely measure somatosensory function in rodent models. Current common methods for measuring somatosensory function in rodent models generally rely on withdrawal responses to uncomfortable or painful stimuli. These tests can be stressful to the animal, while also yielding a high variability in measured responses, and repetitive testing in longitudinal models may even result in chronic pain states. To better understand the connection between physiology and perception of touch and proprioception, researchers need a modern, off-the-shelf assessment system to administer and quantify trained, volitional behaviors. SensiTrak will meet these needs by supporting complex, electromechanical feedback interactions with animals, with interchangeable task modules, behavioral peripherals, and open-source behavioral software. Phase I work will focus on finalization and bench testing of the SensiTrak prototype design and validation testing with a rat model of somatosensory-specific impairment.