Neuronal Electrophysiology

A downside of acute slice recordings on MEAs in contrast to for example an interface chamber is that recordings are done from the cells at the bottom of the slice. These cells get less oxygen and nutrients from the perfused ACSF solution and therefore are likely to give smaller signals and might eventually die first. Perforated MEAs present a solution to this problem as they allow a perfusion of the tissue from both sides at the same time, thereby optimizing the oxygen supply of the acute slice.

This application note provides a standard protocol for the cultivation of primary cortical neurons on CMOS arrays.

MC_Rack is a very flexible recording and analysis program that can be customized for various applications. Different software configurations can be saved for later use in so-called virtual rack files, in analogy to a hardware rack configuration. Here you will find a detailed description of demo rack configurations for various typical applications.

This application note includes a complete protocol for the preparation of dissociated neuronal cell cultures from hippocampus or cortex, either freshly prepared from embryonic rats, or purchased as ready-to-use cryopreserved primary neurons. Data acquisition and on-line and off-line analysis with the Multi Channel Suite and MC_Rack software is explained. Suggestions for suitable MEA-System configurations and support files are also included. It is assumed that the reader is familiar with the functions of the software and the general terminology in the field.

For the required application data please download the separate ZIP file.