Integrating flexible neural probes with a giant cranial window for combined electrophysiology and 2-photon calcium imaging of cortex-hippocampal interactions

Learning and memory retrieval may rely upon coordinated network activation in regions of the neocortex during 150-250 Hz neuronal oscillations, or ripples, in the hippocampus. Golshani’s team will implant flexible electrode arrays developed by BRAIN-funded investigators into mouse hippocampus, and will combine this technology with their large cranial window preparation. This setup should allow for long-lasting, low-noise calcium imaging of neurons across brain regions, extending from frontal to occipital cortex, bilaterally, during a memory retrieval task. The group plans to identify neurons co-activated during ripple oscillations to explore interactions between the hippocampus and neocortex, which could improve understanding of memory dysfunctions in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases.