Implantable microelectrodes with new electro-conductive materials for recording sympathetic neural discharge

Abstract

We have developed two new types of bipolar cuff microelectrodes (volume size, 2-3 mm3) using electro-conductive rubber or water-absorbent polymer, either of which can be applied to measure sympathetic nerve activity in small animals. A renal nerve bundle of an anesthetized rat was inserted into the center hole of the electrode (diameter, 0.15 mm) through a slit and had good contact with the electrodes. Renal sympathetic nerve activity, which was verified by sympathetic ganglionic blockade, could be recorded using either type of implantable cuff electrode.