Protocol for deep brain stimulation in the fimbria-fornix of freely moving mice

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) entails neurosurgery to implant electrodes in specific brain structures to modulate the behavior of a particular neural circuit. DBS is best known for treating advanced Parkinson disease and can potentially be applicable to other motor and even cognitive dysfunctions. Here, we describe a detailed protocol allowing for electrode preparation, surgical procedures, stimulation delivery, and field potential recordings in both anesthetized and behaving mice, and the benefit evaluation of DBS at the fimbria-fornix by using a fear conditioning test.