A chronically implantable device for the controlled delivery of substances, and stimulation and recording of activity in severed nerves

J Neurosci Methods. 2008 Jan 30;167(2):302-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2007.08.021. Epub 2007 Sep 2.

Abstract

We describe the use of an implantable device for peripheral nerves that allows chronic simultaneous delivery of small volumes of solution, recording of both field and multiunit potentials, and electrical stimulation. This custom-made multifunctional device was attached to the cut end of the abducens (VIth) nerve for stimulation, recording and injection purposes. Our device consists of a polyethylene chamber with two electrodes that can be used for stimulation and recording and two Teflon tubes that serve as inlet and outlet for administering chemicals to the nerve fitted inside. Since the device is implanted in a retro-orbital position, we herein will refer to it as an intraorbitary device (IOD). The applicability of the IOD is demonstrated with an electrophysiological and anatomical account of the properties of the abducens nerve. Furthermore, it is shown that certain neuronal discharge properties can be inferred from the nerve recordings. The IOD can also be efficiently used for the delivery of small volume of pharmacological substances or conventional retrograde markers.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Abducens Nerve Injury / pathology
  • Abducens Nerve Injury / physiopathology*
  • Action Potentials / drug effects
  • Action Potentials / physiology
  • Action Potentials / radiation effects
  • Animals
  • Cats
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation
  • Drug Delivery Systems / instrumentation*
  • Electric Stimulation / instrumentation*
  • Electric Stimulation / methods*
  • Fluorescent Dyes / administration & dosage
  • Motor Neurons / drug effects
  • Motor Neurons / radiation effects
  • Prostheses and Implants

Substances

  • Fluorescent Dyes