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Multi‐array silicon probes with integrated optical fibers: light‐assisted perturbation and recording of local neural circuits in the behaving animal
Author(s) -
Royer Sébastien,
Zemelman Boris V.,
Barbic Mladen,
Losonczy Attila,
Buzsáki György,
Magee Jeffrey C.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
european journal of neuroscience
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.346
H-Index - 206
eISSN - 1460-9568
pISSN - 0953-816X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2010.07250.x
Subject(s) - biological neural network , electronic circuit , computer science , neuroscience , silicon , actuator , artificial neural network , biological system , materials science , artificial intelligence , optoelectronics , electrical engineering , engineering , biology
Recordings of large neuronal ensembles and neural stimulation of high spatial and temporal precision are important requisites for studying the real‐time dynamics of neural networks. Multiple‐shank silicon probes enable large‐scale monitoring of individual neurons. Optical stimulation of genetically targeted neurons expressing light‐sensitive channels or other fast (milliseconds) actuators offers the means for controlled perturbation of local circuits. Here we describe a method to equip the shanks of silicon probes with micron‐scale light guides for allowing the simultaneous use of the two approaches. We then show illustrative examples of how these compact hybrid electrodes can be used in probing local circuits in behaving rats and mice. A key advantage of these devices is the enhanced spatial precision of stimulation that is achieved by delivering light close to the recording sites of the probe. When paired with the expression of light‐sensitive actuators within genetically specified neuronal populations, these devices allow the relatively straightforward and interpretable manipulation of network activity.