Micromap: A low-cost multi-channel electrophysiology acquisition system

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Bioengineering
• Systems Neuroscience

Background:

• Investigating neural dynamics requires tools for multi-channel electrophysiological recordings.
• Understanding long-range integration in the brain necessitates monitoring neural activity across multiple regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create an accessible, low-cost, open-source system for multi-channel electrophysiological recordings.
• To facilitate the study of neural dynamics and information flow in long-range integration.

Main Methods:

• Designed a digital signal acquisition system integrating Intan RHD and Texas Instruments ADS chipsets with an Arduino microcontroller.
• Developed a custom headstage and electrode placement methodology using a perforated PCB for local field potential recordings.
• Achieved 32-channel recordings at a 2kHz sampling frequency with minimal sample loss, comparable to gold-standard systems.

Main Results:

• Presented a low-cost bioengineering solution for distributed electrophysiological recordings.
• Enabled detailed investigation of brain dynamics via synchronized neural activity across regions.
• Verified signal integrity and stability under experimental and simulated conditions.

Conclusions:

• The open-source platform allows neuroscience labs to investigate large-scale neural interactions with high temporal precision.
• Expanded access to systems neuroscience tools for understanding interregional brain connectivity.
• This system supports research into the complex functional organization of the brain.