Advanced Polymer-Based Microfabricated Neural Probes Using Biologically Driven Designs.

This research presents new designs and materials for neural recording and stimulation technology. Greater electrode density is enabling neuroscientists to study larger neuronal populations, but even higher signal stability and electrode density are needed. Addressing these issues is critically important for neuroprostheses in the treatment of spinal cord injury, ALS, or limb loss. Stimulating electrodes have already improved quality of life for those with Parkinson’s and dystonia and this technology has many new indications on the horizon. Smaller stimulating electrodes with reduced glial encapsulation would reduce the power requirements of these applications. I will discuss how our research impacts neurotechnology by enabling reduced glial encapsulation, greater design options, and improved electrical insulation. Our first study introduced a novel neural probe with reduced chronic cellular encapsulation. We hypothesized that if a structural feature size is smaller than a reactive cell body (