EEG/ECoG Recordings in Animals

The EEG (ECoG) provides a measure of cortical electrical activity and differs according to sleep-state, level of arousal and mental activity. Given that EEG (ECoG) voltage signals are relatively small (typically 50 µV peak-to-peak), a bioamplifier is necessary to preamplify and filter the small bioelectrical signals.

Whilst clinical studies on humans typically record many channels of EEG activity using an EEG Electro-cap System, it is only necessary to record a single channel of activity in student laboratories. In laboratories using animal subjects, we recommend recording EEG with the Animal Bio Amp and lead wires that terminate in alligator clips (needle electrodes are also available). However, the Animal Bio Amp is not suitable for use on human subjects.

LabChart software can rectify and integrate the raw EEG signal and display the results on a separate channel. The RMS power content of the signal can also be calculated and displayed. The LabChart Spectrum feature displays the power spectrum (FFT) of a selected region of data and can be used to analyze EEG signal frequencies. Students may also investigate EEG Evoked Potentials to auditory, visual and somatosensory stimuli.

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