Characterization and interpretation of electrical signals from random networks of cultured neurons

The main purpose of this paper is to describe several software tools specifically adapted to characterize the electrophysiological behavior of a population of neurons coupled to a planar array of microtransducers by analyzing the recorded signals. Both graphic and signal processing tools are considered. They include: image analysis of the neuronal network topology, peak detection procedure, multi-graphics visualization, spike classification, cross-correlation, interspike and interbursting interval analysis. These tools are utilized to characterize changes induced in the electrophysiological behavior of populations of cultured neurons by modifications to the medium-culture.