Preventing neuronal damage and inflammation in vivo during cortical microelectrode implantation through the use of poloxamer P-188.

Objective: The aim of this study was to test the efficacy of Poloxamer P188 to reduce cell death and immune response associated with mechanical trauma to cells during implantation of a chronic recording electrode.

Approach: Ceramic multi-site recording electrodes were implanted bilaterally into 15 adult male Long-Evans rats. One of each pair was randomly assigned to receive a coating of Poloxamer while the other was treated with saline. The extent of neuron loss, and glial cell recruitment were characterized at 2, 4 and 6 weeks post-implantation by stereologic analysis.

Main Results: At 2 and 4 weeks post-implantation, Poloxamer-coated implants showed significantly fewer glial cells and more neurons in the peri-electrode space than controls; however, this significance was lost by 6 weeks.

Significance: These findings are the first to suggest that Poloxamer has neuroprotective effects in vivo; however, at a fixed loading dose, these effects are limited to approximately 1 month post-implantation.