R2 Implantation System#

An R2drive L on a 3D printed holder with a Neuropixels 1.0 probe mounted to it

The R2 system is an open-source implantation system for silicon probes. R2 stands for Recover and Reuse those silicon probes, on average for 3 chronic experiments. This defining feature is enabled by sacrificing the lower end of the implant during explantation. As a result, the expensive payload is safely recovered while the inexpensive, replaceable part can be disposed of.

Components#

  • A payload carrier, with or without a drive mechanism,

  • A surgery holder for implant-/explant-ation,

  • Headgear to protect the implant in freely moving animals (versions for mice and rats).

Key features#

  • Compatibility with almost any chronic silicon probe (including Neuropixels)

  • Metal parts ensure performance and durability for key steps such as probe recovery

  • Probe recovery rate 70-80% initially, 100% with experience; Probe reuse 3+ times, until the impedance degrades

  • Ability to move the probe post-implantation with microdrive - 7mm travel distance

  • Lightweight: Microdrive = 0.47g; Mouse cap = 2.2g; Rat cap = 11g

  • Components form a fully integrated system but can be used independently

  • Extensive documentation, with 4 published protocols

R2drive stands out by the abundance of protocols available in peer-reviewed journals, which reflect its continuous development. In addition to the original methods paper by Vöröslakos et al., the Buzsaki lab at NYU also published further protocols that describe the use of a base plate system and of μLED probes for optogenetic perturbation. 3Dneuro participated in the design of a novel head-fixation and headgear system, and is continuously improving the design and manufacturing process based on user feedback. Several research papers using the R2 system have already been published (e.g. Huszár et al. 2022, Watkins de Jong et al. 2023, Soula et al. 2023, Ye et al 2024).

Important

When using the R2 System, please cite the following paper:

Mihály Vöröslakos, Peter C Petersen, Balázs Vöröslakos, György Buzsáki (2021) Metal microdrive and head cap system for silicon probe recovery in freely moving rodent eLife 10:e65859. https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.65859

download BIBTEX download RIS

Please also consider mentioning 3Dneuro in your methods section as the supplier of the R2 system.

Getting started icon
Getting Started

How to get started with the R2 system
User manual icon
User Manual

Complete guide to using the R2 system
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Assembly Guide

Step-by-step assembly instructions
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