Formation of neuron-microelectrode junction mediated by a synapse organizer

Neural circuits are composed of various cell types, each of which is thought to play a specific role in realizing the circuit functions. Cell-type specificity is therefore essential in recording neuronal activities but is inherently lacking in the currently available microelectrode techniques. Here, using Interleukin-1 receptor accessory protein-like 1 (IL1RAPL1) as a model synapse organizer, we show a proof-of-principle experiment that a microelectrode functionalized with a synapse organizer is capable of inducing a synapse-like junction between a neuron upon physical contact. We then discuss prospects for developing a new mode of electrophysiology that permits cell-type specific recordings via such a molecularly induced neuron-microelectrode junction.