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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Dec 29, 2025

Investigating Motor Skill Learning Processes with a Robotic Manipulandum
07:52

Investigating Motor Skill Learning Processes with a Robotic Manipulandum

Published on: February 12, 2017

9.1K

Skilled reaching tasks for head-fixed mice using a robotic manipulandum.

Mark J Wagner1, Joan Savall2, Tony Hyun Kim2,3

  • 1Department of Biology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA. mjwagner@stanford.edu.

Nature Protocols
|February 9, 2020
PubMed
Summary

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This summary is machine-generated.

This study presents a novel, inexpensive robotic manipulandum for training mice in skilled forelimb tasks, advancing motor learning research. The accessible device enables diverse movement assays and is compatible with neurophysiological recordings.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Motor Learning
  • Robotics

Background:

  • Skilled forelimb behaviors are crucial for understanding motor learning across species.
  • Robotic manipulanda have been instrumental in primate motor neuroscience research.
  • A need exists for accessible, adaptable robotic systems for rodent motor learning studies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe a protocol for learned forelimb tasks in mice using a novel two-axis robotic manipulandum.
  • To detail the construction, control, and training procedures for this robotic system.
  • To demonstrate the device's versatility for various motor learning assays.

Main Methods:

  • Construction of a compact, actuated planar two-axis robotic manipulandum.
  • Development of software to generate arbitrary movement tracks and force patterns.

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Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Dec 29, 2025

Investigating Motor Skill Learning Processes with a Robotic Manipulandum
07:52

Investigating Motor Skill Learning Processes with a Robotic Manipulandum

Published on: February 12, 2017

9.1K
Automated Rat Single-Pellet Reaching with 3-Dimensional Reconstruction of Paw and Digit Trajectories
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Acquisition of a High-precision Skilled Forelimb Reaching Task in Rats
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Acquisition of a High-precision Skilled Forelimb Reaching Task in Rats

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  • Training protocols for mice to perform tasks like linear, sequential, and aiming movements.
  • Integration with head-fixed neurophysiological recording techniques.

    • Main Results:

    • The robotic device is simple, inexpensive, and can be assembled quickly.
    • Mice can be trained on various skilled forelimb tasks within days to weeks.
    • The system allows for precise control over movement trajectories and force feedback.
    • The device is compatible with head-fixed electrophysiology.

    Conclusions:

    • This robotic manipulandum offers a powerful and accessible tool for studying motor learning in mice.
    • The protocol facilitates the investigation of neural mechanisms underlying skilled motor behaviors.
    • The customizable software allows for diverse and novel motor learning paradigms.