Backyard Brains Logo

Neuroscience for Everyone!

+1 (855) GET-SPIKES (855-438-7745)


items ()

EMG SpikerBox Now Available. Measure Action Potentials in Human Muscles!

While we have enjoyed learning about insect neuroscience during the past few years of our adventure, many teachers have asked us: “Do we have to use bugs?” or “Will this work on humans?” Recording from individual neurons or bundles of nerves requires invasive electrodes, so we are limited to insect preparations for neural activity. But…your muscles also use action potentials (spikes) to change shape and contract! Our engineering team worked last year tweaking our SpikerBox design to be able to pick up human muscle action potentials. It was a tad bit trickier, as recording good signal muscle activity non-invasively through skin electrodes takes some noise cancellation techniques. But…it now works! See video below and judge for yourself. This equipment is available now for your growing laboratory.