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Abstract
<p class="first" id="P1">Implantable electrode devices enable long-term electrophysiological
recordings for
brain-machine interfaces and basic neuroscience research. Implantation of these devices,
however, leads to neuronal damage and progressive neural degeneration that can lead
to device failure. The present study uses
<i>in vivo</i> two-photon microscopy to study the calcium activity and morphology
of neurons before,
during, and one month after electrode implantation to determine how implantation trauma
injures neurons. We show that implantation leads to sustained, high calcium levels
in neurons within 150 μm of the electrode interface. These neurons are morphologically
distorted and mechanoporated after implantation, suggesting that calcium influx is
related to mechanical trauma. Further, calcium-laden neurites develop signs of axonal
injury at 1-3h post-insert. Over the first month after implantation, neuronal calcium
activity increases, suggesting that neurons may be recovering. By defining the mechanisms
of neuron damage after electrode implantation, our results suggest new directions
for therapies to improve electrode longevity.
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