OSERR: an open-source standalone electrophysiology recording system for rodents

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Animal Behavior Studies

Background:

• In vivo neurophysiological recordings are crucial for understanding brain function and disease.
• Existing recording systems often require tethers or receivers, limiting their use in behavioral studies.
• A need exists for flexible, unobtrusive recording solutions compatible with diverse behavioral paradigms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present an open-source, standalone electrophysiology recording system for rodents (OSERR).
• To create a tether-free device capable of acquiring, amplifying, filtering, and storing neural data independently.
• To demonstrate the system's utility across various behavioral contexts and subject types.

Main Methods:

• Designed and built a compact, lightweight, two-channel electrophysiology recording device.
• Integrated data acquisition, amplification, filtering, and storage within the standalone unit.
• Provided complete open-source hardware and software designs for accessibility and customization.

Main Results:

• The OSERR system successfully recorded electroencephalogram (EEG) signals in mice during induced seizures, extended recordings, anesthesia, and social interactions.
• The system demonstrated compatibility with juvenile mice and various standard electrode implantation methods.
• The device requires no external cables or receivers, offering complete freedom of movement.

Conclusions:

• The developed OSERR system is a practical, economical, and freely available solution for in vivo rodent brain recordings.
• This technology facilitates brain activity monitoring during diverse behavioral assays and enables multi-subject social behavior studies.
• The open-source nature allows researchers to adapt and customize the system for specific experimental needs.