An open-source system for recording the auditory brainstem response (ABR) and an example application in mice with...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Bioengineering
• Auditory Neuroscience

Background:

• Auditory brainstem response (ABR) is a key neurophysiological measure of auditory function.
• Existing ABR measurement systems can be costly and complex, limiting accessibility in research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an open-source, low-cost system for measuring ABR in mice.
• To demonstrate the system's capability for high-quality, low-noise auditory response recordings.
• To validate the system's utility in detecting hearing loss.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Texas Instruments ADS1299 chip for multi-channel biosignal recording.
• Developed custom hardware and software for ABR data acquisition and visualization.
• Conducted experiments with free-field auditory clicks and various electrode configurations in mice.

Main Results:

• The system achieved high-quality, low-noise ABR measurements.
• Consistent ABR components were identified, with assessed intra- and inter-mouse variability.
• The system successfully detected decreased auditory sensitivity in mice with induced hearing loss.

Conclusions:

• The developed open-source system provides a cost-effective solution for ABR measurement in mice.
• The system is suitable for research applications, including the study of hearing loss.
• The platform's flexibility allows for adaptation to other biosignal recordings like EMG and ECG.