Multisite Simultaneous Neural Recording of Motor Pathway in Free-Moving Rats

Biosensors, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/bios11120503 · Published: December 8, 2021

Simple Explanation

This research introduces a system designed to record electrical signals from multiple locations within the motor pathway of rats. This includes the cortex, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and muscles, allowing for a comprehensive view of how movement is controlled. The system uses a combination of different electrode types, including adjustable microarrays for the cortex, floating microarrays for the spinal cord, and cuff electrodes for peripheral nerves. These are integrated with a wireless transmitter for data collection in freely moving animals. The system's performance was tested during treadmill walking, wheel running, and open field exploration, demonstrating its stability and applicability for various behavioral conditions. The collected data can support research into neural injuries, rehabilitation, brain-inspired computing, and basic neuroscience.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Four SD rats (weighing 300 ± 50 g)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The developed system allows for simultaneous recording of neural and muscular activity from multiple sites in the motor pathway of freely moving rats.
2
Reproducible modulation of motor cortex and spinal cord spiking activity was observed during bipedal walking on a treadmill, along with burst activity in the sciatic nerve.
3
Distinct patterns of neural activity were identified in the motor cortex and spinal cord during transitions between moving and resting states in an open field environment.

Research Summary

This study presents a novel system for simultaneous, multisite neural recording in freely moving rats, targeting the motor cortex, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and muscles. The system's effectiveness was demonstrated through experiments involving treadmill walking, wheel running, and open field exploration, providing insights into motor pathway activity under various conditions. The findings highlight the potential of this technology for advancing research in neural injury, rehabilitation, brain-inspired computing, and fundamental neuroscience by enabling comprehensive monitoring of the motor neural pathway.

Practical Implications

Comprehensive Motor Pathway Analysis

The system enables researchers to study the entire motor pathway simultaneously, providing a more holistic understanding of motor control.

Advancements in Neural Rehabilitation

The technology can be used to develop more effective therapies for neural injuries by monitoring and modulating neural activity in real-time.

Improved Brain-Computer Interfaces

The detailed neural data obtained can be used to create more accurate and efficient brain-computer interfaces for restoring motor function.

Study Limitations

1
The quality of the sciatic nerve signals could be further enhanced using denoising algorithms for decoding studies.
2
The electrode volume could be further reduced to improve the surgical process and minimize discomfort to the animals.
3
The study does not provide long-term data on the stability and biocompatibility of the implanted electrodes beyond one month.

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