Studying mammalian neurons in vitro with multielectrode arrays

The basic principles for recording and stimulation with extracellular electrodes are described, and how they relate to the use of multielectrode arrays, MEAs, for studies of neural networks in culture. The main engineering issues for building arrays are described, and some examples are given of their use. The "neurochip" which has evolved from standard arrays is described, as well as other possible future developments.