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The DREAM Implant: A Lightweight, Modular, and Cost-Effective Implant System for Chronic Electrophysiology in Head-Fixed and Freely Behaving Mice
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An adaptable, reusable, and light implant for chronic Neuropixels probes
Célian Bimbard1, Flóra Takács2, Joana A Catarino3
1UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
Elife
|February 18, 2025
Summary
Researchers developed the Apollo Implant for chronic neural recordings using Neuropixels probes. This reusable, lightweight device enables stable recordings in freely moving animals for extended periods.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Bioengineering
- Implantable Devices
Background:
- Electrophysiology is crucial for neural activity recording.
- Neuropixels probes significantly enhance neuron recording capabilities.
- Acute implantation limits recordings to head-fixed preparations and prevents longitudinal studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a chronic implant for stable, long-term neural recordings.
- To enable reuse of Neuropixels probes after explantation.
- To create a lightweight implant suitable for freely moving mice.
Main Methods:
- Introduction of the 'Apollo Implant', an open-source, editable device.
- The implant features a recoverable 'payload' and a skull-cemented 'docking' module.
- Adjustable design allows customization of probe distance, angle, and depth.
Main Results:
- Stable neuron recordings maintained over days.
- Successful probe reuse after explantation and re-implantation.
- Demonstrated efficacy in head-fixed mice, freely moving mice, and freely moving rats.
Conclusions:
- The Apollo Implant offers a cost-effective, lightweight, and adaptable solution for chronic Neuropixels recordings.
- Facilitates longitudinal studies of neural activity in behaving animals.
- Supports reusable electrophysiology for neuroscience research.
