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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
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Behavioral Assessment of Manual Dexterity in Non-Human Primates
Published on: November 11, 2011
Sensory processing disorders in a nonhuman primate model: evidence for occupational therapy practice.
Mary L Schneider1, Colleen F Moore, Lisa L Gajewski
1Department of Kinesiology, Occupational Therapy Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2175 Medical Sciences Center, 1300 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706-1532, USA. schneider@education.wisc.edu
Summary
Researchers developed a Sensory Processing Scale for Monkeys (SPS-M) to assess tactile sensory processing. Findings reveal distinct sensory responses in monkeys exposed to prenatal alcohol, stress, or lead, impacting treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Animal Behavior
- Toxicology
Background:
- Sensory processing evaluation is crucial in pediatric occupational therapy.
- Existing human sensory tests were adapted for non-human primates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate the Sensory Processing Scale for Monkeys (SPS-M).
- To assess the impact of prenatal alcohol, stress, and postnatal lead exposure on sensory processing in rhesus monkeys.
Main Methods:
- Developed the Sensory Processing Scale for Monkeys (SPS-M) using tactile stimuli.
- Assessed behavioral responses in adult rhesus monkeys under various exposure conditions.
- Utilized positron emission tomography (PET) to measure dopamine receptor binding.
Main Results:
- Control monkeys exhibited habituation; prenatally stressed monkeys showed sensitization.
- Prenatal alcohol-exposed monkeys displayed high responsiveness without habituation.
- Lead-exposed monkeys demonstrated sensitization, which was reduced by chelation.
- Aversive responsiveness correlated with increased striatal dopamine receptor binding.
Conclusions:
- The SPS-M is a viable tool for assessing primate sensory processing.
- Prenatal and early-life exposures significantly alter sensory processing and behavior.
- Dopamine pathways are implicated in the aversive sensory responses observed.
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