Micro-drive Array for Chronic <em>in vivo</em> Recording: Drive Fabrication

Fabian Kloosterman; Thomas J. Davidson; Stephen N. Gomperts; Stuart P. Layton; Gregory Hale; David P. Nguyen; Matthew A. Wilson

doi:10.3791/1094

Micro-drive Array for Chronic in vivo Recording: Drive Fabrication

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Micro-drive Array for Chronic in vivo Recording: Drive Fabrication

Micro-drive Array for Chronic in vivo Recording: Drive Fabrication

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14:03 min

April 20, 2009

DOI: 10.3791/1094-v

Fabian Kloosterman^1,2, Thomas J. Davidson^1,2, Stephen N. Gomperts^1,2, Stuart P. Layton^1,2, Gregory Hale^1,2, David P. Nguyen^1,2, Matthew A. Wilson^1,2

¹Picower Institute for Learning and Memory,MIT - Massachusetts Institute of Technology, ²Department of Brain and Cognitive Science,MIT - Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Overview

This protocol demonstrates the assembly of a lightweight micro-drive array designed for chronic electrophysiological recordings in rats. The array features 21 independently adjustable screw-driven micro drives, allowing precise control of electrode positioning.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

Electrophysiology
Neuroscience
Animal Behavior

Background

Chronic electrophysiological recordings are essential for studying brain activity.
Micro-drive arrays enable stable and precise electrode placement.
Lightweight designs reduce the impact on animal movement.
Proper assembly is crucial for successful recordings.

Purpose of Study

To fabricate a micro-drive array for use in rat models.
To enhance the stability and precision of electrode positioning.
To facilitate chronic recordings over extended periods.

Methods Used

Assembly of a micro-drive array with adjustable screw-driven drives.
Mounting of drives in a computer-designed plastic base.
Integration of an electrode interface board for recording connections.
Protection of micro drives with a plastic cone.

Main Results

The micro-drive array allows for stable recordings in moving animals.
Independent adjustment of each micro drive enhances recording precision.
The design supports easy connection and disconnection of recording instruments.
Protection mechanisms ensure durability in the animal's environment.

Conclusions

The fabricated micro-drive array is effective for chronic recordings.
Lightweight design minimizes interference with animal behavior.
Future studies can utilize this method for various electrophysiological applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a micro-drive array?

A micro-drive array is a device used to position electrodes for chronic electrophysiological recordings in animal models.

How many micro drives does this array have?

The array features 21 independently adjustable micro drives.

What is the purpose of the plastic base?

The plastic base stabilizes the micro drives relative to the skull and organizes the electrodes for insertion into the brain.

How does the design support animal movement?

The lightweight design minimizes the impact on the animal's movement, allowing for natural behavior during recordings.

What protection does the array provide?

A plastic cone attached to the base protects the micro drives and electrodes from environmental elements in the rat cage.

Who conducted this study?

The study was conducted by Faia Postman from the laboratory of Matt Wilson at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

In this protocol we demonstrate how to fabricate a micro-drive array for chronic electrophysiological recordings in rats.

This video will cover the assembly of a lightweight micro drive array with 21 independently adjustable screw driven micro drives. Each micro drive controls the recording position of a single electrode. The micro drives are mounted in a computer designed plastic base that stabilizes them relative to the skull of the moving animal and collects the electrodes into a densely packed pattern that can pass through a small craniotomy into the brain.

The base also supports an electrode interface board for the connection to the recording instruments, which allows for the animal to be conveniently plugged in and unplugged at the beginning and end of an experiment. A plastic cone attached to the base protects the micro drives and electrodes from the elements in the rat cage. Hi, I'm Faia Postman from the laboratory of Matt Wilson in the PIKA Institute for Learning and Memory at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

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