A simple electrode for intact nerve stimulation and/or recording in semi-chronic rats

A cuff electrode for extracellular nerve stimulation and/or recording is described. It can be made from common laboratory material without the need of special equipment, and consists of a tubular silicone rubber holder enclosing the nerve and keeping it in position against two platinum wires. The assembly is sufficiently insulated to be kept amidst the surrounding tissue, hereby preventing the nerve to dry during recording periods. It can be attached to an adjoining structure, thus allowing further manipulation of the animal.