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Authors & Affiliations
Francesca Barcellini, Nikolaos Molochidis, Christina Grimm, Valerio Zerbi
Abstract
Over the last few years, substantial research efforts have been directed toward the field of awake fMRI in preclinical rodent models. The spread of high-field preclinical scanners as well as the translational potential of fMRI data make this a critical topic for neuroscience. However, because MRI is highly sensitive to movement, animals’ awake recordings remain a challenging task. Nowadays, head-fixation systems are the most common method to address the problem, as anesthesia strongly affects brain function. Although numerous effective constriction setups are available for mice, a user friendly and durable rat restrain system is still lacking. In this study, we present a noninvasive body and head restrain setup for conducting awake rat functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) . The setup presents several key advantages. Firstly, its design eliminates the need for a nose cone, thereby creating additional space for incorporating multiple other recording techniques, including optogenetics, fiber photometry, and pupillometry. Secondly, its compactness enables seamless adaptability to rats of all sizes without requiring any modifications. Additionally, the system's adjustable positioning, facilitated by a sliding mechanism, guarantees compatibility with every MRI cradle.Our preliminary findings indicate that the implant's minimal invasiveness contributes to the absence of distress or anxiety symptoms in rats. Additionally, the implant demonstrates stability over a two-month duration. Moreover, initial awake recordings exhibit promising outcomes concerning the system's resilience and effectiveness, effectively mitigating movement in all dimensions.