Basic information
Investigator: RNDr. Tomáš Petrásek Ph.D.
Main recipient: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Research period: 1/4/2025 – 30/9/2025
Total budget: 687500 CZK
Supported by: Central Bohemian Innovation Centre
Annotation
The proposed project aims to advance the transfer of a system for recording high-frequency sounds beyond human perception (ultrasound) and increase the readiness of the technology for market conditions. The system under development includes hardware (ultrasound microphone and related electronics) and software for dealing with the captured recording, and should enable long-term multi-channel recording. The system is intended for research laboratories, and commercial rodent farms. Ultrasound is the main mode of communication for many animals, but it is inaudible to humans, which is a problem wherever such animals are handled, as staff lack essential information about the health or emotional state of the animals and the noise that may stress them. Specific applications of the system in various spheres include:
1) Testing of new drugs, where the assessment of emotional state and communication is crucial in the development of e.g. antipsychotics, antidepressants, anxiolytics.
2) Long-term monitoring of breeding facilities providing early warning of problems (stress, anxiety, pain), with indication of a specific cage, allowing prevention or early detection of health problems, aggression between animals, etc.
3) Detection of sources of disturbing ultrasounds (fluorescent lights, air conditioning, electronic devices) that can stress animals.