APStracts 2:0469A, 1995.

Technique for repetitive recording from fetal respiratory neurons. Ioffe, S., Jansen, A. H., Chernick, V. Perinatal Physiology Laboratory, University of Manitoba, T042 - 770 Bannatyne Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, CANADA R3E 0W3

APStracts 2:0469A, 1995.

We developed a new method for repetitive recording of medullary neurons in fetal sheep in-situ. The technique involves chronically fixing the fetal head to the flank of the ewe by way of a teflon plate which has a removable window. This window allows direct access of a recording electrode to the floor of the fourth ventricle of the fetus. In 4 of 6 fetuses, repetitive recordings lasting 3-4 hours were possible for up to 6 days. By operating on younger fetuses and with care this time span could be extended. This novel method should be useful in the future for extracellular and intracellular recordings of neurons in the developing fetus without disturbing fetal state, and for the study of putative neurotransmitters during development using iontophoretic techniques.

Received 29 June 1995; accepted in final form 19 October 1995.
APS Manuscript Number A704-5.
Article publication pending Journal of Applied Physiology.
ISSN 1080-4757 Copyright 1995 The American Physiological Society.
Published in APStracts on 6 November 95