MEMS-enabled multi-unit neural recording from Drosophila melanogaster

Penetrating microelectrodes designed for neural recording from the tiny cephalic ganglion of Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) have been fabricated, characterized, and tested in-vivo. Because of the extensive genetic techniques available in Drosophila, and its ever-expanding use in neuroscience, multi-unit ensemble recordings would elucidate general neurobiological mechanisms. Mechanical simulations predicted buckling failure at 283.5 μN, which was validated by experimental results within 2%. Electrochemical characterization measured mean impedance values of 2.74 MΩ (n = 12). We demonstrate that our microfabricated electrodes are able to penetrate the fly cuticle and are capable of acquiring electroretinogram (ERG) signals from the compound eye of the fly.