A Novel Modular Headmount Design for non-invasive Scalp EEG Recordings in Awake Animal Models

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Animal Models

Background:

• Scalp electroencephalography (EEG) in awake, developing animals requires noninvasive, adaptable instrumentation.
• Rapid head growth in juvenile rats presents unique challenges for headmount design and long-term implantation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and evaluate a novel, noninvasive modular headmount for awake scalp EEG in developing rats.
• To assess the impact of the headmount on animal stress, anxiety, and normal development.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Axial Dependent Modular Electrode Mount (ADMEM) using lightweight, adjustable materials.
• In vivo testing of the ADMEM prototype in rat pups using the open field test at acute and sub-acute time-points post-installation.

Main Results:

• ADMEM installation did not significantly affect normal developmental weight gain in rat pups compared to controls.
• While acute anxiety levels showed no significant difference, the ADMEM group spent less time in the center of the open field test, suggesting increased anxiety.
• No significant differences in traveled distances were observed between the ADMEM and control groups at either time-point.

Conclusions:

• The novel ADMEM headmount is a viable, noninvasive tool for awake scalp EEG in developing rats.
• Further research is needed to understand and mitigate the observed increase in anxiety in ADMEM-implanted rats.