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Ephys & fMRI

Record real-time spikes and LFPs during fMRI scans

Overview

Combining electrophysiology with functional MRI provides a more intricate picture of brain activity by correlating the BOLD signal with neural responses. TDT has engineered a complete solution for concurrent recordings during fMRI imaging [doi.org/10.7554]:

  • Large Input Range: Our amplifiers have a +/-500 mV input range to capture scanner artifacts without saturating
  • High Dynamic Range: 124 dB dynamic range preserves neural signal fidelity alongside massive scanner artifacts
  • Non-Ferrous Headstages: 16 and 32 channel MRI-compatible headstages minimize imaging artifacts
  • Real-Time Artifact Rejection: The MRI Recording Processor gizmo in Synapse provides real-time visualization of spikes and LFPs during scans
  • DC-Coupled Amplification: Minimizes signal distortion for better artifact removal

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Pre-configured systems

Starting points our application scientists recommend. Every setup can be changed or expanded; tell us about your experiment and we will adapt it.

Most Popular

Complete 32 Channel FMRI System

A standalone RZ5D processor with Subject Interface designed for fMRI-compatible electrophysiology. Comes with an MRI recording kit with RF filters, non-ferrous headstage extension cables, and more. The large input range of the Subject Interface captures scanner artifacts without signal saturation, enabling artifact removal and recovery of neural signals during simultaneous fMRI and electrophysiology recordings.

Includes

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Capture Scanner Artifact without Saturation

PZ5 Amplifier

The core of TDT’s solution is the PZ5 amplifier. This analog amplifier has a large input range (500 mVolts) and excellent signal resolution (<250 nanoVolts). This ensures perfect signal fidelity during the MRI scan with no signal saturation.

Combined with TDT’s real-time signal processor (RZ5D or RZ2), the PZ5 is an optimal solution for concurrent ephys and fMRI.

NON-FERROUS HARDWARE

16 and 32 ch MRI-compatible headstages

The TDT MRI-compatible headstages are non-ferrous to minimize electromagnetic  interference in the scanner. The small form factor of our 16 and 32 channel Omnetics-based headstages fit easily into small bore MRIs for rodents and marmosets; and our extra-long cables ensure that only the headstage is in the MRI room.

 

MRI Kit

The MRI kit contains RF filters, cable extenders and test resistors that augment our MRI-compatible headstages. Includes:

  • RF filters that minimize EMF artifacts on your fMRI scans
  • Cable extenders that maintain proper distance between the scanner and amplifier without reduced signal quality
  • Test resistors for measuring electrical noise in the MRI

 

MRI compatible Non-ferrous HeadstageHeadstages for Primate and Rodent work

 

MRI Compatibility Kit (right)

 

Real-time MRI artifact rejection

This Gizmo provides users with real-time artifact removal of the MRI scan for visualization of neural activity, such as LFPs and spiking activity. Use the Gizmo to:

  • Control the artifact threshold and size of the artifact window
  • Set a threshold for artifact removal
  • Save the raw data for offline analysis and artifact subtraction

MRI Recording Processor Gizmo

Webinar

Integrating Ephys and fMRI

Learn about recent advances in tools for concurrent electrophysiology with fMRI. Featuring guest researchers:

  • Jiayue (Cherry) Cao – PhD student | PI: Dr. Zhongming Liu | University of Michigan
  • Yuncong Ma – PhD student | PI: Dr. Nanyin Zhang | Penn State

Play Webinar

Why TDT?

When you choose a TDT behavioral neuroscience recording system you choose legacy, innovation, and commitment. Every system is designed and assembled at our headquarters in Alachua, Florida by our long-time employees.