Description:

This video showcases the design and development of a contention jacket tailored for marmosets, a small and active primate species extensively used in neuroscience research. The jacket was innovatively crafted to enable adjustments or replacements of neural implant components on the marmoset’s head without the need for anesthesia. This approach significantly reduces stress and invasiveness, allowing for repeated experiments while prioritizing animal welfare.

Key Features of the Design:

• The Jacket (Beige): This custom-fitted jacket wraps securely around the marmoset’s forearms and torso. Designed using precise CAD-generated stencils, it ensures a comfortable and secure fit. The jacket facilitates natural movement while safeguarding the implant and surgical site during handling.

• The Ball Joint (Yellow): Embedded in the jacket’s back, the ball joint gently stabilizes the animal’s position when required. This feature allows researchers to make swift adjustments to the neural recording device without prolonged immobilization.

Research Context:

Marmosets are increasingly recognized as pivotal models in neuroscience due to their lissencephalic neocortex and genetic accessibility, enabling advanced studies of brain function. This contention jacket design enables the replacement of implant components without requiring frequent anesthesia. Neural recording experiments can then be conducted while the marmosets move freely, providing invaluable insights into natural motor behaviors and voluntary actions.

Innovative Approach:

Developed using advanced engineering tools like Fusion 360, this design addresses the practical challenges of long-term neuroscience research. By combining high functionality with ethical considerations, the contention jacket ensures the well-being of the animal while producing high-quality experimental data. This project demonstrates the value of engineering in addressing the unique needs of animal-based neuroscience research.