• Question: Why do you cut up brains - isn't it a bit disgusting?

    Asked by caitmceniff27 to Simon, Rachael on 13 Jun 2011. This question was also asked by cucumbermustache, thedinosaurexpert.
    • Photo: Simon Bennett

      Simon Bennett answered on 13 Jun 2011:

      Hello,

      I would not describe it as pleasant but you get used to it, it is no different from being a butcher really. I suppose the reason I cut up brains however is because there is no other way to get the information we are looking for. The signals I record are generated in a flat network of many neurons, I have to cut the hippocampus from these brains into very thin slices (400 micrometer or 0.4 of a mm) so I can access these cells and record from them.

      I hope that answers your question.

      Thanks.

Comments