Perforated Multi-Electrode Array Recording in Hypothalamic Brain Slices

Abstract

The ability to record ensemble action potential (AP) discharge frequencies from large populations of neurons over extended periods of time in vitro offers clear advantages in neuroscience and circadian biology research. Here, we provide an overview of a step-by-step method to perform multisite extracellular AP activity recordings in suprachiasmatic and mediobasal hypothalamic nuclei brain slices, using a state-of-the-art perforated multielectrode array system. Further, we describe in detail a setup architecture which systematically delivers stable, high-quality recordings with excellent anatomical accuracy and consistency. We also provide some procedural, technical, and methodological troubleshooting notes and examples of good quality recordings.

Keywords: Circadian; Electrophysiology; Mediobasal hypothalamus; Multiunit activity; Perforated multielectrode array; Suprachiasmatic nuclei.