Effects of Deep Brain Stimulation on Hippocampal Neuronal Activity in a Rat Model

Take an anesthetized rat secured in a stereotactic frame and sterilize the exposed scalp. Then, drape the animal, exposing the surgical site.

Make a midline incision and retract the skin to expose the skull. Clean the incision site.

Identify the bregma, then mark two points on both sides of the skull to target the brain region that directly communicates with the hippocampal neurons.

Drill small holes at the marked sites and remove the bone debris.

Mount a dual-electrode assembly onto the electrode holder.

Insert the electrodes deep into the brain through the holes, reaching the target region.

Apply deep brain stimulation, or DBS, using high-frequency electrical pulses.

These pulses change neuronal activity and signal transmission, enhancing communication with the hippocampal neurons.

In response, neurons in the hippocampus release factors that support their survival and improve connections with other neurons.

These factors also help create conditions that allow new neurons to form.

This demonstrates the therapeutic potential of DBS in treating brain disorders.

Make an incision in the scalp sagittally to reveal the skull. Using a pair of retractors, secure the incised scalp to expose the skull