Smart MEMS recording systems for visual cortical studies

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DESCRIPTION (PROVIDED BY APPLICANT): The purpose of this proposal is to design and build a smart MEMs device for recording multicellular activity in the visual nervous system. This miniaturized and implantable microelectrode array system will automatically adjust the depths of the electrodes to optimize recording performance. The rationale for this system is to improve long term, chronic recording from populations of neurons in the visual system for scientific and neuroprosthetic applications. Current systems with fixed electrode geometries cannot be adjusted to optimize recordings in terms of yield or cell type. Moreover, these systems cannot "follow" cells over time to overcome loss of signal due to movement of the tissue with respect to the electrodes. Manual systems have the drawback of becoming unmanageable for large arrays in scientific studies, and unacceptable for permanent implants for prosthetics applications. The proposed system overcomes all of these drawbacks by automating the position of each electrode based on recorded signal quality. The first aim of this study is to develop algorithms to automatically search for, and hold, recorded signals from neurons. Preliminary data show that this is possible for cortical neurons recorded from awake, behaving monkeys and anesthetized rats. The second aim is to develop MEMS actuators that have low heat dissipation, are lockable with minimal energy application, and can provide large displacements. Preliminary studies indicate that electrolysis actuators developed by one of the co-investigators are ideal for this application. Aim three will integrate all of the components developed in the earlier aims into a single system. This device will consist of a MEMS-based multielectrode array with independently moveable electrodes, and on-board control, monitoring and communications circuits. Although this is a proposal to develop technology, an underlying hypothesis is that this system will improve multiunit, chronic recordings substantially over what can be achieved with fixed geometry systems. This hypothesis will be tested initially with cortical recordings in anesthetized rats followed by recordings from visual cortical areas in behaving monkeys.