Low Cost Electrode Assembly for EEG Recordings in Mice

Abstract

Wireless electroencephalography (EEG) of small animal subjects typically utilizes miniaturized EEG devices which require a robust recording and electrode assembly that remains in place while also being well-tolerated by the animal so as not to impair the ability of the animal to perform normal living activities or experimental tasks. We developed simple and fast electrode assembly and method of electrode implantation using electrode wires and wire-wrap technology that provides both higher survival and success rates in obtaining recordings from the electrodes than methods using screws as electrodes. The new wire method results in a 51% improvement in the number of electrodes that successfully record EEG signal. Also, the electrode assembly remains affixed and provides EEG signal for at least a month after implantation. Screws often serve as recording electrodes, which require either drilling holes into the skull to insert screws or affixing screws to the surface of the skull with adhesive. Drilling holes large enough to insert screws can be invasive and damaging to brain tissue, using adhesives may interfere with conductance and result in a poor signal, and soldering screws to wire leads results in fragile connections. The methods presented in this article provide a robust implant that is minimally invasive and has a significantly higher success rate of electrode implantation. In addition, the implant remains affixed and produces good recordings for over a month, while using economical, easily obtained materials and skills readily available in most animal research laboratories.

A 3D Printed Device for Low Cost Neural Stimulation in Mice

“…While these devices offer the benefits of wireless stimulation and flexible probes, which are ideal for experiments with freely moving animals and chronic implantation, respectively, they have complex designs which cannot be manufactured quickly and cheaply for high turnover experiments. Vogler et al (2017) effectively argue the benefits of simple, low cost devices for neural implantation and demonstrate how this design philosophy can be applied to EEG recordings. Furthermore, many of the stimulation devices described in literature are designed for rats, making them too large to properly function when used with mice.…”

Concurrent behavioral and electrophysiological longitudinal recordings for in vivo assessment of aging

“…(2) Spike Gadgets offers headcaps with a 32-channel capacity. (3) For other EEG systems, refer to Pinnell et al (2015 , 2016 ), Zayachkivsky et al (2015) , Vogler et al (2017) , Kent et al (2018) , Crouch et al (2019) , Medlej et al (2019) , Buenrostro-Jáuregui et al (2020) . A recent study conducted by Crouch et al (2019) demonstrated the utility of combined EEG and behavioral assessments in phenotyping mouse models of AD.…”

Genetic removal of synaptic Zn2+ impairs cognition, alters neurotrophic signaling and induces neuronal hyperactivity

“…EEG activity was recorded in 2-month-old freely moving mice using a Neurologger recording device (TSE Systems) and processed with Spike2 v8.07 (Cambridge Electronic Design) analysis software. Surgeries were performed as previously described in Vogler et al (45). Briefly, mice were anesthetized with 3% isoflurane, the scalp removed, then 0.255 mm diameter electrodes were implanted 1 mm deep into 0.26 mm holes drilled into the skull and fastened with cyanoacrylate glue.…”