Development of closed-loop neural interface technology in a rat model: combining motor cortex operant conditioning with visual cortex microstimulation

IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng. 2010 Apr;18(2):117-26. doi: 10.1109/TNSRE.2010.2041363. Epub 2010 Feb 8.

Abstract

Closed-loop neural interface technology that combines neural ensemble decoding with simultaneous electrical microstimulation feedback is hypothesized to improve deep brain stimulation techniques, neuromotor prosthetic applications, and epilepsy treatment. Here we describe our iterative results in a rat model of a sensory and motor neurophysiological feedback control system. Three rats were chronically implanted with microelectrode arrays in both the motor and visual cortices. The rats were subsequently trained over a period of weeks to modulate their motor cortex ensemble unit activity upon delivery of intra-cortical microstimulation (ICMS) of the visual cortex in order to receive a food reward. Rats were given continuous feedback via visual cortex ICMS during the response periods that was representative of the motor cortex ensemble dynamics. Analysis revealed that the feedback provided the animals with indicators of the behavioral trials. At the hardware level, this preparation provides a tractable test model for improving the technology of closed-loop neural devices.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Animals
  • Conditioning, Operant / physiology*
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical
  • Deep Brain Stimulation
  • Electric Stimulation
  • Electrophysiology
  • Male
  • Microelectrodes
  • Motor Cortex / anatomy & histology
  • Motor Cortex / physiology*
  • Rats
  • Rats, Long-Evans
  • Somatosensory Cortex / physiology
  • User-Computer Interface*
  • Visual Cortex / anatomy & histology
  • Visual Cortex / physiology*