New York University, NYU Neuroscience Institute, NY, USA.
Virginia Tech, School of Neuroscience, VA, USA.
J Neurosci Methods. 2019 Oct 1;326:108397. doi: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2019.108397. Epub 2019 Aug 7.
Neural network processing is usually studied using the spike times of many extracellularly recorded neurons. Elucidating the cellular-synaptic mechanisms underlying these firing patterns requires identifying and controlling single cells and assessing their inputs. Single cell glass electrode techniques (intracellular, patch and juxtacellular) are well suited to filling this gap, in terms of physiology, cell identity and behavior. However, they are typically limited to in vitro and immobilized in vivo experiments, primarily due to the necessity for mechanical stability and steep learning curves. Several approaches have been recently developed to extend these technologies to freely moving animals. Here we summarize the advantages and results for different methods of single neuron glass recordings in vivo. We further review three approaches used to date for single cell recording in freely moving animals: static anchor systems, manual mechanic drives and motorized drives. Finally, we highlight new technologies capable of expanding the utility of single neuron recording in freely moving animals.
神经网络处理通常使用许多细胞外记录的神经元的尖峰时间进行研究。阐明这些发射模式背后的细胞突触机制需要识别和控制单个细胞，并评估它们的输入。单细胞玻璃电极技术（细胞内、贴壁和细胞旁）在生理学、细胞身份和行为方面非常适合填补这一空白。然而，它们通常仅限于体外和体内固定实验，主要是由于机械稳定性和陡峭的学习曲线的必要性。最近已经开发了几种方法来将这些技术扩展到自由移动的动物。在这里，我们总结了不同的体内单细胞玻璃记录方法的优点和结果。我们进一步回顾了迄今为止用于自由移动动物单细胞记录的三种方法：静态锚定系统、手动机械驱动器和电动驱动器。最后，我们强调了能够扩展自由移动动物中单神经元记录的新的实用技术。
