Ceramic-Based Microelectrode Neuronal Recordings in the Rat and Monkey

The study of population dynamics and information coding across ensembles of neurons requires the ability to record from multiple cells in the brain. This requirement has led to the development of microelectrode arrays which permit recording from locally restricted areas of the brain with a high degree of positional accuracy. Prototype DEEP (Deep Brain Electrochemical/Electrophysiological Probes) ceramic substrate-based microelectrode arrays developed at the University of Kentucky were used for electrophysiological recordings from deep brain regions in nonhuman primate with remarkable accuracy and fidelity. The design parameters and optimization of these microelectrode arrays along with data obtained from their use in rats and monkeys are discussed.