Using in vivo spinally-evoked potentials to assess functional connectivity along the spinal axis

Epidural spinal cord stimulation has been shown to facilitate locomotion in paralyzed rats, cats, and humans. Little is known, however, about how this mode of stimulation affects the functional properties of spinal networks. Herein, we report a technique to assess functional connectivity along the spinal axis via evoked potentials generated on the epidural surface using a custom flexible polyimide microelectrode array in anesthetized non-injured adult rats. Three specific responses were observed with varying latencies and amplitudes based on the recording and stimulation sites. This proof of concept study will allow us to design and implant devices chronically to record spinal cord evoked potentials while paralyzed rats perform functional tasks.