Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026

In vivo Imaging of Deep Cortical Layers using a Microprism
Published on: August 27, 2009
Integrated Microprism and Microelectrode Array for Simultaneous Electrophysiology and Two-Photon Imaging across All
Qianru Yang1,2,3, Bingchen Wu1,2, Elisa Castagnola1,4
1Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.
This study introduces a novel device for simultaneous brain recording and imaging, advancing neuroscience research. The technology enables deeper neural exploration, crucial for brain-computer interfaces and understanding brain mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neurotechnology
Background:
- Cerebral neural electronics are vital for neuroscience research and brain-computer interfaces.
- Current limitations exist in understanding cellular mechanisms and imaging deep neural structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel device for simultaneous electrophysiology and two-photon microscopy (TPM) imaging.
- To enable imaging and recording across all cortical layers in a vertical plane.
Main Methods:
- Integration of transparent microelectrode arrays with glass microprisms.
- Multisite electrophysiological recording/stimulation and simultaneous TPM calcium imaging in mice.
- Investigation of microstimulation parameters on neural activation patterns.
Main Results:
- The integrated device successfully performed multisite electrophysiological recording/stimulation and TPM calcium imaging.
- Demonstrated capability for imaging and recording across all cortical layers.
- Provided insights into neural activation patterns in response to microstimulation.
Conclusions:
- The developed multimodal tool expands integrated electrophysiology and optical imaging capabilities to the entire cortical column.
- This technology opens new avenues for neuroscience research and neurotechnology development, particularly for brain-computer interfaces.
- Future improvements in material stability and single-unit yield are expected to further enhance its utility.
Related Concept Videos
Imaging Biological Samples with Optical Microscopy
In optical microscopy, the specimen to be viewed is placed on a glass slide and clipped on the stage...
Phase Contrast and Differential Interference Contrast Microscopy
In-phase-contrast microscopes, interference between light directly passing through a cell and light refracted by cellular components is used to create high-contrast, high-resolution images without staining. It is the oldest and simplest type of microscope that creates an image by altering the wavelengths of light rays passing through the specimen. Altered wavelength paths are created using an annular stop in the condenser. The annular stop produces a hollow cone of...
Overview of Electron Microscopy
Overview of Microscopy Techniques
Two-Dimensional Microscopy in Microbiology
Three-Dimensional Microscopy in Microbiology

