Protocol for chronic electroencephalography, fiber photometry, and silicon probe recordings in the Syrian hamster

The Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) exhibits a unique metabolic physiology, including the ability to enter hypometabolic states. While this species represents a powerful model for studying the neuronal basis of metabolic control and brain-state transitions, its use is limited due to the lack of detailed protocols for chronic neuronal measurements. Here, we present a step-by-step protocol for chronic surgical implantation and multimodal neuronal recordings in Syrian hamsters. We describe steps for electroencephalography (EEG), fiber photometry, and multi-channel silicon probe recordings.