Thalamocortical Slice Preparation Jig  

Description

This is a 3D-printed jig to assist in preparing thalamocortical brain slices from rat or mouse brains, based on the protocol described in: 

Agmon, A., & Connors, B. W. (1991). Thalamocortical responses of mouse somatosensory (barrel) cortex in vitro. Neuroscience, 41(2-3), 365–379. https://doi.org/10.1016/0306-4522(91)90330-n. 

Usage Instructions

Step 1: Extract the Brain

After euthanasia, carefully remove the rat or mouse brain and keep it in ice-cold slicing solution.

Step 2: Position Inside Jig on Filter Paper

Place the brain in the jig on a piece of filter paper to prevent it from sliding. Ensure the rostral (front) part is facing down the ramp of the jig.

Step 3: Make the Initial Cut

Using a razor blade, slice through the brain following the built-in guide. This cut provides the surface for mounting on the vibratome.

Step 4: Mount on the Slicing Stage

Glue the freshly cut surface onto the vibratome slicing stage.

Step 5: Perform Vibratome Slicing

Proceed with sectioning the brain into the desired slice thickness using the vibratome.

Printing Information

• Material: PETG
• Layer Height: 0.28 mm is fine
• Infill: 10%