A starting kit for training and establishing in vivo electrophysiology, intracranial pharmacology, and optogenetics

BACKGROUND: In accordance with the three R principles of research, animal usage should be limited as much as possible. Especially for the training of entry-level scientists in surgical techniques underlying opto- and electrophysiology, alternative training tools are required before moving on to live animals. We have developed a cost-effective rat brain model for training a wide range of surgical techniques, including, but not limited to optogenetics, electrophysiology, and intracranial pharmacological treatments. RESULTS: Our brain model creates a realistic training experience in animal surgery. The success of the surgeries (e.g. implantation accuracy) is readily assessable in cross sections of the model brain. Moreover, the model allows practicing electrophysiological recordings as well as testing for movement or light related artefacts. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHOD(S): The surgery and recording experience in our model closely resembles that in an actual rat in terms of the necessary techniques, considerations and time span. A few differences to an actual rat brain slightly reduce the difficulty in our model compared to a live animal. Thus, entry level scientists can first learn basic techniques in our model before moving on to the slightly more complex procedures in live animals. CONCLUSIONS: Our brain model is a useful training tool to equip scientist who are new in the field of electrophysiology and optogenetic manipulations with a basic skill set before applying it in live animals. It can be adapted to fit the desired training content or even to serve in testing and optimizing new lab equipment for more senior scientists.