Rodent In Vivo Electrophysiology Targeting System (RIVETS® and RIVETS 360®)

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Laboratory Tools

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Rodent In Vivo Electrophysiology Targeting System (RIVETS® and RIVETS 360®)

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A novel system enabling the combination of in vitro and in vivo physiology experiments on one microscope

Recent studies have provided compelling demonstrations that both mice and rats can be trained to perform various behavioral tasks while head restrained. To be effective for research studies, a system of rodent head restraint is required for electrophysiology and imaging, both in vitro and in vivo. The system must include stability, rapid customization, and rapid conversion between preparations and low cost. Identification of systems that deliver these core requirements has proven difficult, so inventors at Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Janelia Research Campus developed RIVETS® and RIVETS 360®—unique sample preparation and handling systems that enable the combining of in vitro and in vivo physiology experiments on one microscope.

The RIVETS® system features a metal platform that accommodates both head posts and slice chambers. It can be integrated into a microscope stage or be independent of the microscope. The head posts have a removable target system and slice chamber that fit interchangeably in the platform. The head posts and slice chambers can be customized using a three-dimensional printer using stl design files that include multiple configurations for various applications. The design facilitates the rapid conversion of a single physiology and imaging system between preparations. In addition, rapid redesign of the system can be deployed in a matter of days.

The standard RIVETS® system has several designs, including an XY axes motorized platform, a modular microscopy system, and a base model that can be used for most imaging and electrophysiology rigs. In addition to the standard system, the RIVETS 360® system is designed for 360 degrees of freedom and quick loading for behavioral studies where flexibility is optimal, and high stability is not a requirement.

Advantages:

Cost-effective design
Ability to rapidly convert between preparations
Demonstrated long term stability and compatibility, making the system suitable for everyday use
Highly customizable, with multiple configurations for the head posts and slice chambers

Applications:

Researchers can use the system to combine electrophysiology and imaging experiments across in vitro and in vivo preparations.
Researchers can use the system in free-moving behavioral studies.

Opportunity:

Free for Non-Profit Research via design files at Flintbox link to the right.

Available for purchase at Ronal Tools

Available for Commercial License.

See links at right.

For inquiries, please reference:

Janelia 2009-012 & 2012-025

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