Multielectrode arrays for recording complex spike activity

Abstract

The multielectrode technique described here was developed for simultaneously recording complex spike activity from arrays of Purkinje cells in anesthetized rodents. The technique involves placing a platform on the surface of the brain and implanting microelectrodes through this platform, which then serves to hold the individual electrodes in place and to protect the brain surface. With this technique, stable recordings of complex spike activity for over 24 h have been achieved. Typical arrays consist of ~40 electrodes that are arranged as a 4 × 10 matrix with electrodes spaced by ~250 μm; however, denser and larger arrays are possible. The technique was designed for recording complex spike activity in anesthetized animals. However, it has also been successfully used to record Purkinje cell simple spikes and activity from other neurons. Moreover, it is possible to use this approach with awake, head-fixed animals performing behavioral tasks.