Clunbury Scientific LLC

We use Omnetics Nano connector (16 channels) for our standard MWEA connector (Dimension). It is compatible with many amplifier manufacturers such as Plexon, Tucker-Davis (TDT), A-M systems and etc. We recently developed a special connector named modular connector that is very suitable for arrays used in mice. It can also be used to make a cluster of arrays with 32, 64, 128 channels. The spacing (400 um) of the pin of modular arrays use the same footprint of the arrays. You just need to parallel many modular arrays to make a cluster of 32-128 channels. The size of the modular connector is only 1/3 of the conventional Omnetics Nano connector. The configuration of the mudular connector can be easily modified. We also provide the matching adapter for your specific system. Please provide the specifications of the MWEA that you need (see the picture above for an example). You can also tell us the targets you are going to record. We will figure out the specifications for you.

We use platinum/iridium wire to make microwire electrode arrays (MWEA) for both chronic and acute recording. The electrodes are specifically sharpened to facilitate the penetration and to minimize the injury. In addition to a couple of microns of polyimide coating, a second layer of biocompatible material is applied. The tips are further hardened with a special technique developed by us. The wire length of the MWEA can be set at different length to fit the special contour of the targets. Variable configurations can be made according your needs (see the picture bellow).

These arrays have be successfully tested in different implantations, including single and multiple implants. . The areas included the auditory cortex (AC), the inferior colliculus (IC), the dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN), the medial genicular body (MGB), and the amygdala (AMG). This approach makes it possible to record three structures simultaneous and chronically. The animal can be recorded while it is awake.

It also has been used in studying chronic influence of embolic stroke on neural activity. Excellent signal/noise ratio makes it one of best candidates for your research (J Neurosci Methods. 2007;162:91-100). Recently, we have successfully recorded good multiunit activity in rat amygdala 13 months after implantation with repeated stimulation. No significant physical damage in the MWEA was observed after retracting the arrays.

Here is the special feature of our array:

1) The sharpened and hardened tip minimize the mechanical lesion. You can perform dura-intact implantation

2) Special biocompatible coating minimizes the chronic reaction

3) Recently developed 25 um shaft array further improve the mechanical influence on brain tissue

4) Our movable arrays provide possibility to refresh the signals after original location failed.

Putting together, you can easily to get good signals for months even more than a year in rats with our fixed arrays. In large animals such as dogs, monkeys, and etc, you may record good signals for many years with our movable arrays.