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In vivo Optogenetic Stimulation of the Rodent Central Nervous System
Published on: January 15, 2015
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Robust optical fiber patch-cords for in vivo optogenetic experiments in rats
Ivan Trujillo-Pisanty1, Christian Sanio1, Nadia Chaudhri1
1Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology (CSBN)/Groupe de recherche en neurobiologie comportementale, Department of Psychology. Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke Street West, Science Pavilion, room #244, H4B 1R6 Montréal, QC, Canada.
Methodsx
|July 8, 2015
Summary
Researchers developed durable optical fiber patch cords for in vivo optogenetics in rodents. These robust cables resist damage from large rodents, improving experimental reliability and reducing costs.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- In vivo optogenetics commonly uses long optical fibers to connect light sources to brain implants.
- Commercially available patch cords are expensive and prone to breakage, especially with large, behaving rodents.
- Existing in-house solutions often lack durability for long-term rodent experiments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a more robust and cost-effective optical fiber patch cord for in vivo optogenetic experiments.
- To enhance the durability of patch cords to withstand the physical demands of experiments with large rodents.
- To provide a reliable method for constructing custom patch cords suitable for long-term studies.
Main Methods:
- Modified existing patch cord designs by strengthening the tip connecting to the optical implant.
- Incorporated multiple layers of shielding to create a more robust and resistant cladding.
- Illustrated construction methods for patch cords using FC or M3 connectors, adaptable to other connector types.
Main Results:
- Developed patch cords with significantly increased longevity (long half-life) compared to standard or previously modified versions.
- The enhanced patch cords demonstrated resistance to moderate rodent bites and physical stress.
- Successfully utilized the robust patch cords in long-term (months) optical self-stimulation experiments with rats.
Conclusions:
- The developed patch cord design offers a cost-effective and durable solution for in vivo optogenetics.
- This robust design is suitable for long-term experiments involving large rodents, improving experimental success rates.
- The method allows for the creation of reliable optical fiber connections, reducing experimental downtime and costs.
