SensiTrak: Automated Assessment of Forelimb Sensation

项目摘要 在第一阶段STTR项目中，Vulintus，Inc.与哥伦比亚大学合作，提出了 开发和测试“SensiTrak”，这是一个自动化、高吞吐量的行为系统，旨在 精细测量啮齿动物模型的体感功能。当前常用的方法 在啮齿动物模型中测量体感功能通常依赖于对 不舒服或痛苦的刺激。这些测试可能会给动物带来压力，同时也会产生 测量响应的高度可变性，以及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，研究人员需要一个现代的、现成的评估 管理和量化训练有素的意志行为的系统。SensiTrak将满足这些需求 通过支持与动物的复杂机电反馈交互， 可互换的任务模块、行为外设和开源行为软件。 第一阶段的工作将集中于SensiTrak原型设计的定稿和台架测试，以及 用体感特异性损伤的大鼠模型进行验证测试。

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.