EEG/ECoG based functional connectivity neuroimaging in the rat - optimisation, standardisation and translational leap in neuropsychopharmacology

• Applicant: Professor Dr.-Ing. Theodor Doll
• Subject Area: Biomedical Systems Technology ; Experimental Models for the Understanding of Nervous System Diseases
• Term: since 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 511765241

Compared to human electrophysiological research, animal studies, especially pharmaco-EEG, lack generally accepted standards and guidelines. Therefore, this project seeks to develop an innovative approach to translational EEG in rats that combines improved and standardised data acquisition (multi-channel recording techniques with standardised electrode positions, wakefulness, and sleep control), data preprocessing and the implementation of advanced data analysis methods used in human research. This will push the limits of neuroimaging in rats in terms of achievable spatial and temporal resolution while simultaneously providing higher technical differentiation and functional understanding in the area of neuropsychopharmacology. Implementation of standardised procedures with optimised flexible and medium-term physiological silicone electrode implants will further extend the impact of current research and enable to work out guidelines for translational EEG applicable in basic science as well as in pharmaco-EEG.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Czech Republic, Poland
• Partner Organisation: Narodowe Centrum Nauki (NCN)
• Cooperation Partners: Dr.-Ing. Jaroslav Lácík; Tomás Pálenícek, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Daniel K. Wójcik