The development of the high-resolution cell-specific map of the neural activity associated with a particular behavior presents one of the major challenges in modern neuroscience. This dynamic electrophysiological mapping is particularly difficult in behaviors with a strong temporal variability, such as learning or memory. It is furthr aggravated by the limited long-term stability of the existing high-density electrophysiological platforms and the inability to uniquely identify cell types during recording. This project strivesto develop novel multi-functional fiber-inspired neural probes (FINPs) for long- term simultaneous neural recording and optogenetic and pharmacological cell-type identification. Specifically, we will combine soft polymer-based materials with a fiber-inspired fabrication process to create a platform that seamlessly integrates hundreds of micrometer-size electrodes, waveguides and drug delivery channels, while minimizing the potential tissue response to chronic implantation. We will characterize our structures with respect to their tissue compatibility and long-term functionality in chronic experiments in collaboration with Dr. William Shain in Seattle Children's Research Institute (SCRI), who will share his knowledge of histological methods and image analysis. Furthermore, the utility of the proposed FINPs will be evaluated in a basic neuroscience study relevant to learning. FINPs will be used to measure the changes in activity (mPFC) neurons that project to the basolateral amygdala (BLA) as a previously learned fear response is extinguished. The combined behavioral and electrophysiological experiments will be performed in close collaboration with Dr. Alla Karpova at the Janelia Farm Research Campus (JFRC), who will contribute her expertise in mPFC physiology and cell identification techniques.

Public Health Relevance

The goal of the proposed project is to develop a new generation of multifunctional high-resolution devices for neural recording and cell-type identification. Furthermore, we aim to demonstrate that our fiber-inspired neural probes may provide critical electrophysiological information during experiments, in which the relevant time scale spans days to months, such as learning to extinguish a previously acquired conditioned fear. We believe that the proposed technology will enable long-term dynamic mapping of the brain activity necessary for understanding and future treatment of complex neurological disorders.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01NS086804-05
Application #
9614340
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1)
Program Officer
Kukke, Sahana Nalini
Project Start
2015-02-15
Project End
2019-12-31
Budget Start
2019-01-01
Budget End
2019-12-31
Support Year
5
Fiscal Year
2019
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Department
Miscellaneous
Type
Organized Research Units
DUNS #
001425594
City
Cambridge
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02142
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