Open-Source Real-Time Closed-Loop Electrical Threshold Tracking for Translational Pain Research

作者： Aidan P. Nickerson1,2, Graeme W. T. Newton1, James H. O'Sullivan3, Manuel Martinez-Perez4, Anna C. Sales1, Gethin Williams5, Anthony E. Pickering1, James P. Dunham1 1Anaesthesia, Pain, and Critical Care Sciences, School of Physiology, Pharmacology, & Neuroscience,University of Bristol, 2Eli Lilly and Company, 3Department of Computer Science,University of Bristol, 4Department of Aerospace Engineering,University of Bristol, 5Research Computing,University of Bristol

简介：

Overview

APTrack is a software plugin for the Open Ephys platform designed for real-time visualization and electrical threshold tracking of neuronal action potentials. This tool has been applied to microneurography studies involving human and mouse C-fiber nociceptors, exploring nociceptor sensitization linked to chronic pain.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

• Neuroscience
• Electrophysiology
• Chronic pain mechanisms

Background

• APTrack enables automated electrical threshold tracking of nociceptors.
• Nociceptor sensitization contributes to chronic pain conditions.
• Real-time data visualization supports both human and animal studies.
• This system allows for the evaluation of treatments affecting neuronal excitability.

Purpose of Study

• Investigate mechanisms of nociceptor sensitization.
• Enable reliable, online measurement of nociceptor excitability.
• Bridge research between clinical and preclinical assessments of pain.

Methods Used

• The study utilizes the Open Ephys platform with the APTrack plugin.
• Models include human C-fiber nociceptors and mouse C-fiber and Aδ-fiber nociceptors.
• Details on apparatus setup and electrical stimulation methodologies are provided.
• User instructions for operating the APTrack GUI are specified.
• The protocol emphasizes initial connectivity and calibration steps.

Main Results

• Automated tracking of action potentials shows real-time excitability changes.
• Identification of constant latency action potentials supports nociceptor studies.
• Electrical threshold tracking algorithms yield reliable threshold values.
• The system provides insights into the excitability of sensitized nociceptors, aiding in chronic pain research.

Conclusions

• APTrack demonstrates utility in assessing nociceptor excitability across species.
• This methodology facilitates the evaluation of chronic pain treatments.
• The findings may enhance understanding of neuronal mechanisms underlying pain.

Frequently Asked Questions