Drug Delivery Package
Hardware
Silicon probe assembly with an integrated microfluidic channel for simultaneous local drug infusion and neural recording.
Overview
The Drug Delivery Package (pkg_drd) integrates a microfluidic delivery channel directly alongside recording sites on a silicon probe shank. A single insertion allows researchers to simultaneously record neural signals and locally deliver pharmacological agents, viral vectors, fluorescent dyes, or other solutions to the exact recording site.
Design
- Channel Type: Fused silica capillary or polyimide microfluidic tube running the shank length
- Outlet Port: Positioned adjacent to the recording site cluster (~10–50µm from nearest site)
- Inner Diameter: Typically 50–100µm (flow rate optimized for physiological volumes)
- Connection: Luer-lock interface to syringe or pressure injector
- Probe Compatibility: Available with A-Series, Matrix, and select other probe families
Applications
Pharmacology
- Local AMPA/NMDA receptor antagonists to dissect synaptic circuits
- GABA agonists/antagonists for inhibition studies
- Dose–response characterization with simultaneous electrophysiology
Viral Vector Delivery
- Targeted optogenetic construct delivery with recording at injection site
- Retrograde tracers for circuit mapping
Dye Injection
- DiI, DiO for post-hoc track reconstruction
- Fluorescent indicators to mark recording locations
Limitations
- Microfluidic channel adds ~20–50µm to shank width, slightly increasing tissue displacement
- Requires external infusion pump or pressure injection system
- Flow rate control is critical — excessive pressure can damage tissue adjacent to recording sites
Related
See also: A-Series Silicon Probes, Optrode Package