An Automated Behavioral Apparatus to Assess Distal Forelimb Function in Non-Human Primates

Background: Primate distal forelimb behaviors are commonly assessed using reach-to-grasp tasks. While these tasks are widely recognized as sensitive assays for forelimb function, they often require experimenter input, lack precise temporal cues for physiological monitoring, and can be expensive. New Method: Using components developed by open-source electronics platforms, we have designed and tested a low-cost system to measure distal forelimb function in non-human primates. Our system is inexpensive; it is made primarily of acrylic and 3D printed plastic parts. Our control software, developed in MATLAB, was also used to control two cameras in order to capture and process video during behavior. The system was equipped with sensors, motors and microcontrollers to control the timing of the task and facilitate synchronization between behavior and neurophysiology with high temporal precision. Results: We demonstrate that this system can be used to monitor motor recovery after stroke and investigate neurophysiological correlates of motor control. Comparison with Existing Methods: Compared to a previous version of this task, our setup reduces experimenter input while providing unbiased delivery of behavioral cues and behavioral measurements with the temporal precision necessary for electrophysiological studies.Conclusions: In summary, our system will allow unbiased monitoring of forelimb function in both healthy and injured animals that is compatible with electrophysiological studies.