Protocol for stimulating specific rodent limb receptive fields while recording in vivo somatosensory-evoked activity

• Published in: STAR protocols 2024-06, Vol.5 (2), p.102972, Article 102972
• Main Authors: Zaforas, Marta, Miguel-Quesada, Claudia, Fernández-López, Elena, Alonso-Calviño, Elena, Barranco-Maresca, Verónica, Misol-Ortiz, Andrea, Aguilar, Juan, Rosa, Juliana M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Behavior; Health Sciences; Neuroscience
• ISSN: 2666-1667; 2666-1667
• DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2024.102972

Studies on sensory information processing typically focus on whisker-related tactile information, overlooking the question of how sensory inputs from other body areas are processed at cortical levels. Here, we present a protocol for stimulating specific rodent limb receptive fields while recording in vivo somatosensory-evoked activity. We describe steps for localizing cortical-hindlimb coordinates using acute peripheral stimulation, electrode placement, and the application of electrical stimulation. This protocol overcomes the challenge of inducing a reproducible and consistent stimulation of specific limbs. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Miguel-Quesada et al.1 [Display omitted] •Steps for preparation of electrodes for peripheral limb stimulation•Instructions for craniotomy and placement of peripheral stimulation electrodes•Steps for locating somatotopic cortical regions in response to peripheral stimulation•Quantitative analysis of layering sensory-evoked cortical responses Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics. Studies on sensory information processing typically focus on whisker-related tactile information, overlooking the question of how sensory inputs from other body areas are processed at cortical levels. Here, we present a protocol for stimulating specific rodent limb receptive fields while recording in vivo somatosensory-evoked activity. We describe steps for localizing cortical-hindlimb coordinates using acute peripheral stimulation, electrode placement, and the application of electrical stimulation. This protocol overcomes the challenge of inducing a reproducible and consistent stimulation of specific limbs.