RatHat: A Self-Targeting Printable Brain Implant System.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Surgical Technology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Traditional stereotaxic methods have seen minimal innovation for decades.
• Existing u-frame stereotaxic devices can be costly and time-consuming.
• There is a need for more efficient and repeatable stereotaxic surgical techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the RatHat, a novel 3D-printable stereotaxic system for rodent brain implantation.
• To offer an alternative to traditional stereotaxic devices that reduces costs and surgical time.
• To improve the repeatability and accessibility of stereotaxic surgeries.

Main Methods:

• The RatHat system is a 3D-printable device fabricated to fit the individual rat skull.
• It allows for direct brain implantation without head-leveling or intraoperative coordinate mapping.
• The system includes components for mounting intracranial devices, surgical stencils, and protective caps.

Main Results:

• The RatHat system was successfully demonstrated in four proof-of-principle experiments, including cannula, optrode, electrode array, and tetrode hyperdrive implants.
• Implants were successful, durable, and maintained functionality for up to nine months.
• The 3D-printable nature allows for easy customization, sharing, and contributes to open science principles.

Conclusions:

• The RatHat system offers a cost-effective, time-efficient, and repeatable alternative for stereotaxic brain implantation in rodents.
• Its customizable and shareable design supports open science and facilitates replication.
• The RatHat system is adaptable to various experimental paradigms and can advance rodent stereotaxic surgery.