Identifying Cellular Intraspinal Electrophysiological Features of "Spinal Shock" - Project Summary and Abstract This project aims to identify the electrophysiological characteristics of spinal motor neurons during the recovery stages following a spinal cord injury (SCI) in mouse models. Capitalizing on preliminary experiments with soft, stretchable hydrogel microelectrodes, the study will employ these tools to conduct intraspinal recordings from the ventral areas of the lumbar segment in awake, behaving mice. By leveraging the advantageous capabilities of these microelectrodes, we plan to capture precise, real-time electrophysiological signals from motor neurons and correlate these patterns with observed behavioral changes throughout the recovery process. This project will enable intraspinal electrophysiology recordings from motor neurons, capturing key electrophysiological signals across various phases of spinal shock recovery, including areflexia, transition, and hyperreflexia. The project is structured into two primary aims: Aim 1 focuses on optimizing intraspinal electrophysiological recording from motor neurons in awake, behaving mice, across activities such as resting, walking, and running over extended periods. Aim 2 will expand this approach to monitor and analyze electrophysiological properties throughout different recovery phases post-SCI. This aim involves monitoring motor neuron activities in SCI- affected mice to assess how these activities correlate with reflex responses and behavioral assessments, to distinguish recovery-related neuronal changes. Successfully completing this project is expected to enhance our understanding of neuronal dynamics during spinal shock and recovery, potentially informing new therapeutic strategies for SCI rehabilitation.
