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Array Configurations


As detailed in Chung et al., 2023, we have created many different configurations of the Myomatrix array, allowing researchers to examine muscle activity across a range of muscle sizes (as small as a songbird vocal muscle and as large as a primate biceps) and experimental conditions (chronic or acute recordings). Myomatrix electrode arrays are compatible with a range of data-collection systems, and the CAMBER team has developed multiple approaches for implanting particular muscle groups. We are always available for a consultation if one has questions about which options would work best for a given use case.  Contact the team at camber@emory.edu.

Connectorization choices

1: Using the Omnetics connector that is attached to the back end of the array.  The connectors are attached in a horizontal orientation (Image A) or a vertical orientation, allowing for optimation with other stimulation or recording devices. Note that sterilization in a conventional high heat and steam autoclave will disrupt the electrical connection between the array and the Omnetics connector and is NOT recommended.

2: Using an in-house designed Zero Insertion Force (ZIF)-to-Omnectics adapter (Image B). The adapter can be used across multiple experiments and, in contrast to the attached connector, the ZIF interface electrodes can be sterilized in a conventional high heat and steam autoclave. Videos demonstrating how to insert the ZIF into the adapter can be found on the Getting Started page > Tips and Tricks tab.

Connecterization choices_final

Methods for securing arrays: needle injection

Intramuscular insertion with a needle - by threading the tail into a small-gauge needle, one can inject each array thread directly into the target muscle. Each thread is well-anchored in the muscle via the small barbs. This method works extremely well for larger muscles, e.g. biceps or triceps brachii of the mouse forelimb.

Percutaneous insertion with a needle - One can inject through the skin using arrays with a long tail that is threaded into a laser-blunted needle (provided by CAMBER). This technique is best used for acute recordings in non-human primates or for human subjects research. 

needle insertion figure

Methods for securing arrays: sutures

Intramuscular insertion with sutures - using arrays with sutures holes at the distal end, one can pull the array thread into the muscle using a small suture needle. The threads' small barbs and additional distal suture holes help secure the array in place. This method is best suited for muscles that are too small to use the needle-insertion method described above, e.g. songbird jaw muscles.

 Epimysial attachment with sutures- One can lay the array, electrode-side down, on top of the muscle and suture each thread into place using the distal suture holes.  This technique best serves muscles that are too small or too thin to insert intramuscularly, e.g. the rodent extensor digitorum longus.

 

suture attachment figure