Elsevier

Methods

Volume 25, Issue 2, October 2001, Pages 121-150
Methods

Regular Article
Techniques for Chronic, Multisite Neuronal Ensemble Recordings in Behaving Animals

https://doi.org/10.1006/meth.2001.1231Get rights and content

Abstract

Advances in our understanding of neural systems will go hand in hand with improvements in the experimental techniques used to study these systems. This article describes a series of methodological developments aimed at enhancing the power of the methods needed to record simultaneously from populations of neurons over broad regions of the brain in awake, behaving animals. First, our laboratory has made many advances in electrode design, including movable bundle and array electrodes and smaller electrode assemblies. Second, to perform longer and more complex multielectrode implantation surgeries in primates, we have modified our surgical procedures by employing comprehensive physiological monitoring akin to human neuroanesthesia. We have also developed surgical implantation techniques aimed at minimizing brain tissue damage and facilitating penetration of the cortical surface. Third, we have integrated new technologies into our neural ensemble, stimulus and behavioral recording experiments to provide more detailed measurements of experimental variables. Finally, new data analytical techniques are being used in the laboratory to analyze increasingly large quantities of data.

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    To whom all correspondence should be addressed at Department of Neurobiology, Box 3209, Room 327E, Bryan Research Building, Duke University Medical Center, 101 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27710. Fax: (919) 684-5435. E-mail: [email protected].

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