Researchers Develop Virtual Reality Goggles for Mice to Advance Brain Studies

The innovative MouseGoggles use smartwatch components to create immersive VR environments for studying brain function and diseases like Alzheimer's.

Cornell University scientists have created MouseGoggles, a virtual reality headset for mice, using low-cost components such as smartwatch displays.
The device enables more immersive and controlled experiments, allowing researchers to study brain activity related to spatial navigation, memory, and cognitive disorders.
In tests, mice vividly reacted to VR stimuli, including jumping in response to a simulated predator, demonstrating the system's effectiveness compared to traditional setups.
The goggles also incorporate pupil-tracking cameras, and researchers confirmed that the VR system stimulates key brain areas like the visual cortex and hippocampus.
Future plans include developing mobile versions for larger rodents and expanding sensory stimulation to include smell and taste for more comprehensive behavioral studies.