Syntalos: a software for precise synchronization of simultaneous multi-modal data acquisition and closed-loop interventions

Matthias Klumpp, Lee Embray, Filippo Heimburg, Ana Luiza Alves Dias, Justus Simon, Alexander Groh, Andreas Draguhn and Martin Both ()
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Matthias Klumpp: Heidelberg University
Lee Embray: Heidelberg University
Filippo Heimburg: Heidelberg University
Ana Luiza Alves Dias: Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte
Justus Simon: Heidelberg University
Alexander Groh: Heidelberg University
Andreas Draguhn: Heidelberg University
Martin Both: Heidelberg University

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-14

Abstract: Abstract Complex experimental protocols often require multi-modal data acquisition with precisely aligned timing, as well as state- and behavior-dependent interventions. Tailored solutions are mostly restricted to individual experimental setups and lack flexibility and interoperability. We present an open-source, Linux-based integrated software solution, called ‘Syntalos’, for simultaneous acquisition and synchronization of data from an arbitrary number of sources, including multi-channel electrophysiological recordings and different live imaging devices, as well as closed-loop, real-time interventions with different actuators. Precisely matching timestamps for all inputs are ensured by continuous statistical analysis and correction of individual devices’ timestamps. New data sources can be integrated with minimal programming skills. Data is stored in a comprehensively structured format to facilitate pooling or sharing data between different laboratories. Syntalos enables precisely synchronized multi-modal recordings as well as closed-loop interventions for multiple experimental approaches. Preliminary neuroscientific experiments on mice with different research questions show the successful performance and easy-to-learn structure of the software suite.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-56081-9

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