Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 2, 2026
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Assessment of Social Cognition in Non-human Primates Using a Network of Computerized Automated Learning Device ALDM Test Systems
Published on: May 5, 2015
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CalliCog is an open-source cognitive neuroscience toolkit for freely behaving nonhuman primates
Jack T Scott1, Bruno L Mendivez Vasquez2, Brian J Stewart1
1Section on Cellular and Cognitive Neurodevelopment, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
Cell Reports Methods
|May 8, 2025
Summary
CalliCog, a new in-cage platform, enables autonomous cognitive experiments with nonhuman primates (NHPs). This system successfully trained marmosets in complex tasks, advancing NHP cognitive research and neurobehavioral studies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Primate Research
Background:
- Nonhuman primates (NHPs) are crucial models for understanding human cognition.
- Traditional cognitive studies with NHPs are limited to specialized laboratory settings.
- A need exists for accessible, scalable platforms for NHP cognitive research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce CalliCog, an open-source, in-cage experimental platform for small, freely behaving NHPs.
- To demonstrate the platform's capability in training NHPs and collecting neurobehavioral data.
- To facilitate broader access to NHP cognitive experimentation.
Main Methods:
- Developed CalliCog, featuring modular, autonomous operant chambers integrated with home cages.
- Trained experimentally naive common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) on touchscreen-based cognitive tasks.
- Synchronized behavioral data with electrocorticography (ECoG) recordings from freely moving animals.
Main Results:
- Marmosets achieved touchscreen proficiency within two weeks across two independent facilities.
- Animals successfully completed tasks assessing behavioral flexibility and working memory.
- CalliCog enabled precise synchronization of behavioral and ECoG data.
Conclusions:
- CalliCog is a scalable, autonomous platform effective for cognitive training and neurobehavioral research in small NHPs.
- The open-source nature of CalliCog democratizes NHP cognitive experimentation.
- This platform bridges the translational gap between preclinical models and human cognition.
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