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Kim HJ, Choi H, Kim DH, Son D. Stretchable Functional Nanocomposites for Soft Implantable Bioelectronics. NANO LETTERS 2024. [PMID: 38771649 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c01163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Material advances in soft bioelectronics, particularly those based on stretchable nanocomposites─functional nanomaterials embedded in viscoelastic polymers with irreversible or reversible bonds─have driven significant progress in translational medical device research. The unique mechanical properties inherent in the stretchable nanocomposites enable stiffness matching between tissue and device, as well as its spontaneous mechanical adaptation to in vivo environments, minimizing undesired mechanical stress and inflammation responses. Furthermore, these properties allow percolative networks of conducting fillers in the nanocomposites to be sustained even under repetitive tensile/compressive stresses, leading to stable tissue-device interfacing. Here, we present an in-depth review of materials strategies, fabrication/integration techniques, device designs, applications, and translational opportunities of nanocomposite-based soft bioelectronics, which feature intrinsic stretchability, self-healability, tissue adhesion, and/or syringe injectability. Among many, applications to brain, heart, and peripheral nerves are predominantly discussed, and translational studies in certain domains such as neuromuscular and cardiovascular engineering are particularly highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Jin Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yonsei University, Wonju 26493, Republic of Korea
| | - Heewon Choi
- Center for Neuroscience Imaging Research, Institute for Basic Science, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Hyeong Kim
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Donghee Son
- Center for Neuroscience Imaging Research, Institute for Basic Science, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
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2
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Liu X, Gong Y, Jiang Z, Stevens T, Li W. Flexible high-density microelectrode arrays for closed-loop brain-machine interfaces: a review. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1348434. [PMID: 38686330 PMCID: PMC11057246 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1348434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Flexible high-density microelectrode arrays (HDMEAs) are emerging as a key component in closed-loop brain-machine interfaces (BMIs), providing high-resolution functionality for recording, stimulation, or both. The flexibility of these arrays provides advantages over rigid ones, such as reduced mismatch between interface and tissue, resilience to micromotion, and sustained long-term performance. This review summarizes the recent developments and applications of flexible HDMEAs in closed-loop BMI systems. It delves into the various challenges encountered in the development of ideal flexible HDMEAs for closed-loop BMI systems and highlights the latest methodologies and breakthroughs to address these challenges. These insights could be instrumental in guiding the creation of future generations of flexible HDMEAs, specifically tailored for use in closed-loop BMIs. The review thoroughly explores both the current state and prospects of these advanced arrays, emphasizing their potential in enhancing BMI technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Liu
- Neuroscience Program, Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering (IQ), East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Yan Gong
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering (IQ), East Lansing, MI, United States
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Zebin Jiang
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering (IQ), East Lansing, MI, United States
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Trevor Stevens
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Wen Li
- Neuroscience Program, Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering (IQ), East Lansing, MI, United States
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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3
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Paggi V, Fallegger F, Serex L, Rizzo O, Galan K, Giannotti A, Furfaro I, Zinno C, Bernini F, Micera S, Lacour SP. A soft, scalable and adaptable multi-contact cuff electrode for targeted peripheral nerve modulation. Bioelectron Med 2024; 10:6. [PMID: 38350988 PMCID: PMC10865708 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-023-00137-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cuff electrodes target various nerves throughout the body, providing neuromodulation therapies for motor, sensory, or autonomic disorders. However, when using standard, thick silicone cuffs, fabricated in discrete circular sizes, complications may arise, namely cuff displacement or nerve compression, due to a poor adaptability to variable nerve shapes and sizes encountered in vivo. Improvements in cuff design, materials, closing mechanism and surgical approach are necessary to overcome these issues. METHODS In this work, we propose a microfabricated multi-channel silicone-based soft cuff electrode with a novel easy-to-implant and size-adaptable design and evaluate a number of essential features such as nerve-cuff contact, nerve compression, cuff locking stability, long-term integration and stimulation selectivity. We also compared performance to that of standard fixed-size cuffs. RESULTS The belt-like cuff made of 150 μm thick silicone membranes provides a stable and pressure-free conformal contact, independently of nerve size variability, combined with a straightforward implantation procedure. The adaptable design and use of soft materials lead to limited scarring and demyelination after 6-week implantation. In addition, multi-contact designs, ranging from 6 to 16 electrodes, allow for selective stimulation in models of rat and pig sciatic nerve, achieving targeted activation of up to 5 hindlimb muscles. CONCLUSION These results suggest a promising alternative to classic fixed-diameter cuffs and may facilitate the adoption of soft, adaptable cuffs in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Paggi
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Florian Fallegger
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Olivier Rizzo
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational NeuroEngineering, Neuro-X Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Katia Galan
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alice Giannotti
- The BioRobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Ivan Furfaro
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ciro Zinno
- The BioRobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabio Bernini
- The BioRobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Silvestro Micera
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational NeuroEngineering, Neuro-X Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- The BioRobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stéphanie P Lacour
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland.
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Yoo S, Kim M, Choi C, Kim DH, Cha GD. Soft Bioelectronics for Neuroengineering: New Horizons in the Treatment of Brain Tumor and Epilepsy. Adv Healthc Mater 2023:e2303563. [PMID: 38117136 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Soft bioelectronic technologies for neuroengineering have shown remarkable progress, which include novel soft material technologies and device design strategies. Such technological advances that are initiated from fundamental brain science are applied to clinical neuroscience and provided meaningful promises for significant improvement in the diagnosis efficiency and therapeutic efficacy of various brain diseases recently. System-level integration strategies in consideration of specific disease circumstances can enhance treatment effects further. Here, recent advances in soft implantable bioelectronics for neuroengineering, focusing on materials and device designs optimized for the treatment of intracranial disease environments, are reviewed. Various types of soft bioelectronics for neuroengineering are categorized and exemplified first, and then details for the sensing and stimulating device components are explained. Next, application examples of soft implantable bioelectronics to clinical neuroscience, particularly focusing on the treatment of brain tumor and epilepsy are reviewed. Finally, an ideal system of soft intracranial bioelectronics such as closed-loop-type fully-integrated systems is presented, and the remaining challenges for their clinical translation are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungwon Yoo
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Minjeong Kim
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Changsoon Choi
- Center for Opto-Electronic Materials and Devices, Post-silicon Semiconductor Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Hyeong Kim
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Doo Cha
- Department of Systems Biotechnology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea
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5
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Milekovic T, Moraud EM, Macellari N, Moerman C, Raschellà F, Sun S, Perich MG, Varescon C, Demesmaeker R, Bruel A, Bole-Feysot LN, Schiavone G, Pirondini E, YunLong C, Hao L, Galvez A, Hernandez-Charpak SD, Dumont G, Ravier J, Le Goff-Mignardot CG, Mignardot JB, Carparelli G, Harte C, Hankov N, Aureli V, Watrin A, Lambert H, Borton D, Laurens J, Vollenweider I, Borgognon S, Bourre F, Goillandeau M, Ko WKD, Petit L, Li Q, Buschman R, Buse N, Yaroshinsky M, Ledoux JB, Becce F, Jimenez MC, Bally JF, Denison T, Guehl D, Ijspeert A, Capogrosso M, Squair JW, Asboth L, Starr PA, Wang DD, Lacour SP, Micera S, Qin C, Bloch J, Bezard E, Courtine G. A spinal cord neuroprosthesis for locomotor deficits due to Parkinson's disease. Nat Med 2023; 29:2854-2865. [PMID: 37932548 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-023-02584-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
People with late-stage Parkinson's disease (PD) often suffer from debilitating locomotor deficits that are resistant to currently available therapies. To alleviate these deficits, we developed a neuroprosthesis operating in closed loop that targets the dorsal root entry zones innervating lumbosacral segments to reproduce the natural spatiotemporal activation of the lumbosacral spinal cord during walking. We first developed this neuroprosthesis in a non-human primate model that replicates locomotor deficits due to PD. This neuroprosthesis not only alleviated locomotor deficits but also restored skilled walking in this model. We then implanted the neuroprosthesis in a 62-year-old male with a 30-year history of PD who presented with severe gait impairments and frequent falls that were medically refractory to currently available therapies. We found that the neuroprosthesis interacted synergistically with deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus and dopaminergic replacement therapies to alleviate asymmetry and promote longer steps, improve balance and reduce freezing of gait. This neuroprosthesis opens new perspectives to reduce the severity of locomotor deficits in people with PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomislav Milekovic
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Eduardo Martin Moraud
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolo Macellari
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Charlotte Moerman
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Flavio Raschellà
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- NeuroX Institute, School of Bioengineering, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Shiqi Sun
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matthew G Perich
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Camille Varescon
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Robin Demesmaeker
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alice Bruel
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Léa N Bole-Feysot
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Giuseppe Schiavone
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces (LSBI), NeuroX Institute, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Elvira Pirondini
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Rehab and Neural Engineering Labs, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Cheng YunLong
- Motac Neuroscience, UK-M15 6WE, Manchester, UK
- China Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Li Hao
- Motac Neuroscience, UK-M15 6WE, Manchester, UK
- China Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Andrea Galvez
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sergio Daniel Hernandez-Charpak
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gregory Dumont
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jimmy Ravier
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Camille G Le Goff-Mignardot
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Baptiste Mignardot
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gaia Carparelli
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Cathal Harte
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Hankov
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Viviana Aureli
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | | | - David Borton
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
- School of Engineering, Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jean Laurens
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Isabelle Vollenweider
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Simon Borgognon
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - François Bourre
- Université de Bordeaux, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, Bordeaux, France
- CNRS, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, Bordeaux, France
| | - Michel Goillandeau
- Université de Bordeaux, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, Bordeaux, France
- CNRS, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, Bordeaux, France
| | - Wai Kin D Ko
- Motac Neuroscience, UK-M15 6WE, Manchester, UK
- China Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Laurent Petit
- Université de Bordeaux, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, Bordeaux, France
- CNRS, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, Bordeaux, France
| | - Qin Li
- Motac Neuroscience, UK-M15 6WE, Manchester, UK
- China Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | | | - Maria Yaroshinsky
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jean-Baptiste Ledoux
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Fabio Becce
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Julien F Bally
- Department of Neurology, CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Dominique Guehl
- Université de Bordeaux, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, Bordeaux, France
- CNRS, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, Bordeaux, France
| | - Auke Ijspeert
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marco Capogrosso
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Rehab and Neural Engineering Labs, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jordan W Squair
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Leonie Asboth
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Philip A Starr
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Doris D Wang
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Stéphanie P Lacour
- NeuroX Institute, School of Bioengineering, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces (LSBI), NeuroX Institute, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Silvestro Micera
- NeuroX Institute, School of Bioengineering, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Biorobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Chuan Qin
- China Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jocelyne Bloch
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland.
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Erwan Bezard
- Motac Neuroscience, UK-M15 6WE, Manchester, UK.
- China Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Beijing, China.
- Université de Bordeaux, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, Bordeaux, France.
- CNRS, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, Bordeaux, France.
| | - G Courtine
- NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland.
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
- NeuroRestore, Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies, EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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6
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Fallegger F, Trouillet A, Coen FV, Schiavone G, Lacour SP. A low-profile electromechanical packaging system for soft-to-flexible bioelectronic interfaces. APL Bioeng 2023; 7:036109. [PMID: 37600068 PMCID: PMC10439817 DOI: 10.1063/5.0152509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Interfacing the human body with the next generation of electronics requires technological advancement in designing and producing bioelectronic circuits. These circuits must integrate electrical functionality while simultaneously addressing limitations in mechanical compliance and dynamics, biocompatibility, and consistent, scalable manufacturing. The combination of mechanically disparate materials ranging from elastomers to inorganic crystalline semiconductors calls for modular designs with reliable and scalable electromechanical connectors. Here, we report on a novel interconnection solution for soft-to-flexible bioelectronic interfaces using a patterned and machined flexible printed circuit board, which we term FlexComb, interfaced with soft transducing systems. Using a simple assembly process, arrays of protruding "fingers" bearing individual electrical terminals are laser-machined on a standard flexible printed circuit board to create a comb-like structure, namely, the FlexComb. A matching pattern is also machined in the soft system to host and interlock electromechanically the FlexComb connections via a soft electrically conducting composite. We examine the electrical and electromechanical properties of the interconnection and demonstrate the versatility and scalability of the method through various customized submillimetric designs. In a pilot in vivo study, we validate the stability and compatibility of the FlexComb technology in a subdural electrocorticography system implanted for 6 months on the auditory cortex of a minipig. The FlexComb provides a reliable and simple technique to bond and connect soft transducing systems with flexible or rigid electronic boards, which should find many implementations in soft robotics and wearable and implantable bioelectronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Fallegger
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alix Trouillet
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Florent-Valéry Coen
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Stéphanie P. Lacour
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
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7
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Matter L, Harland B, Raos B, Svirskis D, Asplund M. Generation of direct current electrical fields as regenerative therapy for spinal cord injury: A review. APL Bioeng 2023; 7:031505. [PMID: 37736015 PMCID: PMC10511262 DOI: 10.1063/5.0152669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrical stimulation (ES) shows promise as a therapy to promote recovery and regeneration after spinal cord injury. ES therapy establishes beneficial electric fields (EFs) and has been investigated in numerous studies, which date back nearly a century. In this review, we discuss the various engineering approaches available to generate regenerative EFs through direct current electrical stimulation and very low frequency electrical stimulation. We highlight the electrode-tissue interface, which is important for the appropriate choice of electrode material and stimulator circuitry. We discuss how to best estimate and control the generated field, which is an important measure for comparability of studies. Finally, we assess the methods used in these studies to measure functional recovery after the injury and treatment. This work reviews studies in the field of ES therapy with the goal of supporting decisions regarding best stimulation strategy and recovery assessment for future work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Matter
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:
| | - Bruce Harland
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Auckland, NZ 1023 Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Brad Raos
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Auckland, NZ 1023 Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Darren Svirskis
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Auckland, NZ 1023 Auckland, New Zealand
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8
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Kim JS, Kim J, Lim JW, Kim DJ, Lee JI, Choi H, Kweon H, Lee J, Yee H, Kim JH, Kim B, Kang MS, Jeong JH, Park SM, Kim DH. Implantable Multi-Cross-Linked Membrane-Ionogel Assembly for Reversible Non-Faradaic Neurostimulation. ACS NANO 2023; 17:14706-14717. [PMID: 37498185 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c02637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Neural interfaces play a major role in modulating neural signals for therapeutic purposes. To meet the demand of conformable neural interfaces for developing bioelectronic medicine, recent studies have focused on the performance of electrical neurostimulators employing soft conductors such as conducting polymers and electronic or ionic conductive hydrogels. However, faradaic charge injection at the interface of the electrode and nerve tissue causes irreversible gas evolution, oxidation of electrodes, and reduction of biological ions, thus causing undesired tissue damage and electrode degradation. Here we report a conformable neural interface engineering based on multicross-linked membrane-ionogel assembly (termed McMiA), which enables nonfaradaic neurostimulation without irreversible charge transfer reaction. The McMiA consists of a genipin-cross-linked biopolymeric ionogel coupled with a dopamine-cross-linked graphene oxide membrane to prevent ion exchange between biological and synthetic McMiA ions and to function as a bioadhesive forming covalent bonds with the target tissues. In addition, the demonstration of bioelectronic medicine via the McMiA-based neurostimulation of sciatic nerves shows the enhanced clinical utility in treating the overactive bladder syndrome. As the McMiA-based neural interface is soft, robust for bioadhesion, and stable in a physiological environment, it can offer significant advancement in biocompatibility and long-term operability for neural interface engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joo Sung Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Junho Kim
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Woo Lim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Jun Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Ik Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Hanbin Choi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyukmin Kweon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiho Lee
- Department of Convergence IT Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeono Yee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hong Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Bokyung Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Sung Kang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Emergent Materials, Sogang University, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hyun Jeong
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Min Park
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea
- Department of Convergence IT Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Do Hwan Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
- Clean-Energy Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
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9
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Song S, Fallegger F, Trouillet A, Kim K, Lacour SP. Deployment of an electrocorticography system with a soft robotic actuator. Sci Robot 2023; 8:eadd1002. [PMID: 37163609 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.add1002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Electrocorticography (ECoG) is a minimally invasive approach frequently used clinically to map epileptogenic regions of the brain and facilitate lesion resection surgery and increasingly explored in brain-machine interface applications. Current devices display limitations that require trade-offs among cortical surface coverage, spatial electrode resolution, aesthetic, and risk consequences and often limit the use of the mapping technology to the operating room. In this work, we report on a scalable technique for the fabrication of large-area soft robotic electrode arrays and their deployment on the cortex through a square-centimeter burr hole using a pressure-driven actuation mechanism called eversion. The deployable system consists of up to six prefolded soft legs, and it is placed subdurally on the cortex using an aqueous pressurized solution and secured to the pedestal on the rim of the small craniotomy. Each leg contains soft, microfabricated electrodes and strain sensors for real-time deployment monitoring. In a proof-of-concept acute surgery, a soft robotic electrode array was successfully deployed on the cortex of a minipig to record sensory cortical activity. This soft robotic neurotechnology opens promising avenues for minimally invasive cortical surgery and applications related to neurological disorders such as motor and sensory deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukho Song
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Sustainability Robotics, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Florian Fallegger
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alix Trouillet
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kyungjin Kim
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Stéphanie P Lacour
- Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
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10
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Khan B, Abdullah S, Khan S. Current Progress in Conductive Hydrogels and Their Applications in Wearable Bioelectronics and Therapeutics. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:mi14051005. [PMID: 37241628 DOI: 10.3390/mi14051005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Wearable bioelectronics and therapeutics are a rapidly evolving area of research, with researchers exploring new materials that offer greater flexibility and sophistication. Conductive hydrogels have emerged as a promising material due to their tunable electrical properties, flexible mechanical properties, high elasticity, stretchability, excellent biocompatibility, and responsiveness to stimuli. This review presents an overview of recent breakthroughs in conductive hydrogels, including their materials, classification, and applications. By providing a comprehensive review of current research, this paper aims to equip researchers with a deeper understanding of conductive hydrogels and inspire new design approaches for various healthcare applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bangul Khan
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebro-Cardiovascular Health Engineering (COCHE), Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Saad Abdullah
- School of Innovation, Design and Engineering, Division of Intelligent Future Technologies, Mälardalen University, P.O. Box 883, 721 26 Västerås, Sweden
| | - Samiullah Khan
- Center for Eye & Vision Research, 17W Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
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11
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Wu M, Yao K, Huang N, Li H, Zhou J, Shi R, Li J, Huang X, Li J, Jia H, Gao Z, Wong TH, Li D, Hou S, Liu Y, Zhang S, Song E, Yu J, Yu X. Ultrathin, Soft, Bioresorbable Organic Electrochemical Transistors for Transient Spatiotemporal Mapping of Brain Activity. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2300504. [PMID: 36825679 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202300504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
A critical challenge lies in the development of the next-generation neural interface, in mechanically tissue-compatible fashion, that offer accurate, transient recording electrophysiological (EP) information and autonomous degradation after stable operation. Here, an ultrathin, lightweight, soft and multichannel neural interface is presented based on organic-electrochemical-transistor-(OECT)-based network, with capabilities of continuous high-fidelity mapping of neural signals and biosafety active degrading after performing functions. Such platform yields a high spatiotemporal resolution of 1.42 ms and 20 µm, with signal-to-noise ratio up to ≈37 dB. The implantable OECT arrays can well establish stable functional neural interfaces, designed as fully biodegradable electronic platforms in vivo. Demonstrated applications of such OECT implants include real-time monitoring of electrical activities from the cortical surface of rats under various conditions (e.g., narcosis, epileptic seizure, and electric stimuli) and electrocorticography mapping from 100 channels. This technology offers general applicability in neural interfaces, with great potential utility in treatment/diagnosis of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengge Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Electronic Thin Films and Integrated Devices, School of Optoelectronic Science and Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, 610054, P. R. China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Intelligent Optoelectronics and Perception, Institute of Optoelectronics, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, P. R. China
| | - Kuanming Yao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Ningge Huang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Intelligent Optoelectronics and Perception, Institute of Optoelectronics, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, P. R. China
| | - Hu Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Jingkun Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Rui Shi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Jiyu Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Xingcan Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Huiling Jia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Zhan Gao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Tsz Hung Wong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Dengfeng Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Sihui Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Electronic Thin Films and Integrated Devices, School of Optoelectronic Science and Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, 610054, P. R. China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Yiming Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Shiming Zhang
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, P. R. China
| | - Enming Song
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Intelligent Optoelectronics and Perception, Institute of Optoelectronics, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, P. R. China
| | - Junsheng Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Electronic Thin Films and Integrated Devices, School of Optoelectronic Science and Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, 610054, P. R. China
| | - Xinge Yu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong, P. R. China
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12
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Xing Y, Zhou M, Si Y, Yang CY, Feng LW, Wu Q, Wang F, Wang X, Huang W, Cheng Y, Zhang R, Duan X, Liu J, Song P, Sun H, Wang H, Zhang J, Jiang S, Zhu M, Wang G. Integrated opposite charge grafting induced ionic-junction fiber. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2355. [PMID: 37095082 PMCID: PMC10126126 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37884-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of ionic-junction devices has attracted growing interests due to the potential of serving as signal transmission and translation media between electronic devices and biological systems using ions. Among them, fiber-shaped iontronics possesses a great advantage in implantable applications owing to the unique one-dimensional geometry. However, fabricating stable ionic-junction on curved surfaces remains a challenge. Here, we developed a polyelectrolyte based ionic-junction fiber via an integrated opposite charge grafting method capable of large-scale continuous fabrication. The ionic-junction fibers can be integrated into functions such as ionic diodes and ionic bipolar junction transistors, where rectification and switching of input signals are implemented. Moreover, synaptic functionality has also been demonstrated by utilizing the fiber memory capacitance. The connection between the ionic-junction fiber and sciatic nerves of the mouse simulating end-to-side anastomosis is further performed to realize effective nerve signal conduction, verifying the capability for next-generation artificial neural pathways in implantable bioelectronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Xing
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, 201620, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingjie Zhou
- Department of Hand Surgery, Center for the Reconstruction of Limb Function, National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital; Department of Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, Jing'an District Central Hospital; NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Institute of Hand Surgery, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueguang Si
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute of Brain Science, Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Chi-Yuan Yang
- Laboratory of Organic Electronics, Department of Science and Technology, Linköping University, SE-601 74, Norrköping, Sweden
| | - Liang-Wen Feng
- College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 610064, Chengdu, China
| | - Qilin Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, 201620, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Center for the Reconstruction of Limb Function, National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital; Department of Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, Jing'an District Central Hospital; NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Institute of Hand Surgery, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaomin Wang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Center for the Reconstruction of Limb Function, National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital; Department of Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, Jing'an District Central Hospital; NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Institute of Hand Surgery, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Huang
- School of Automation Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 611731, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuhua Cheng
- School of Automation Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 611731, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruilin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 130022, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xiaozheng Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 130022, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jun Liu
- National Key Laboratory on Electromagnetic Environmental Effects and Eletro-optical Engineering, 210007, Nanjing, China
| | - Ping Song
- National Key Laboratory on Electromagnetic Environmental Effects and Eletro-optical Engineering, 210007, Nanjing, China
| | - Hengda Sun
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, 201620, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongzhi Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, 201620, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiayi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute of Brain Science, Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Su Jiang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Center for the Reconstruction of Limb Function, National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital; Department of Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, Jing'an District Central Hospital; NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Institute of Hand Surgery, Fudan University, 200040, Shanghai, China
| | - Meifang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, 201620, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, 201620, Shanghai, China.
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13
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Hu Z, Niu Q, Hsiao BS, Yao X, Zhang Y. Bioactive polymer-enabled conformal neural interface and its application strategies. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2023; 10:808-828. [PMID: 36597872 DOI: 10.1039/d2mh01125e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Neural interface is a powerful tool to control the varying neuron activities in the brain, where the performance can directly affect the quality of recording neural signals and the reliability of in vivo connection between the brain and external equipment. Recent advances in bioelectronic innovation have provided promising pathways to fabricate flexible electrodes by integrating electrodes on bioactive polymer substrates. These bioactive polymer-based electrodes can enable the conformal contact with irregular tissue and result in low inflammation when compared to conventional rigid inorganic electrodes. In this review, we focus on the use of silk fibroin and cellulose biopolymers as well as certain synthetic polymers to offer the desired flexibility for constructing electrode substrates for a conformal neural interface. First, the development of a neural interface is reviewed, and the signal recording methods and tissue response features of the implanted electrodes are discussed in terms of biocompatibility and flexibility of corresponding neural interfaces. Following this, the material selection, structure design and integration of conformal neural interfaces accompanied by their effective applications are described. Finally, we offer our perspectives on the evolution of desired bioactive polymer-enabled neural interfaces, regarding the biocompatibility, electrical properties and mechanical softness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanao Hu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qianqian Niu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, People's Republic of China.
| | - Benjamin S Hsiao
- Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, 11794-3400, USA
| | - Xiang Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yaopeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Saghir S, Imenes K, Schiavone G. Integration of hydrogels in microfabrication processes for bioelectronic medicine: Progress and outlook. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1150147. [PMID: 37034261 PMCID: PMC10079906 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1150147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent research aiming at the development of electroceuticals for the treatment of medical conditions such as degenerative diseases, cardiac arrhythmia and chronic pain, has given rise to microfabricated implanted bioelectronic devices capable of interacting with host biological tissues in synergistic modalities. Owing to their multimodal affinity to biological tissues, hydrogels have emerged as promising interface materials for bioelectronic devices. Here, we review the state-of-the-art and forefront in the techniques used by research groups for the integration of hydrogels into the microfabrication processes of bioelectronic devices, and present the manufacturability challenges to unlock their further clinical deployment.
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15
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Ma X, Maimaitiyiming X. High Electrical Conductivity and Low Temperature Resistant Double Network Hydrogel Ionic Conductor as a Flexible Sensor and Quasi‐Solid Electrolyte. ChemistrySelect 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.202203285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry and Utilization of Carbon Based Energy Resources College of Chemistry Xinjiang University Urumqi 830046 Xinjiang PR China
| | - Xieraili Maimaitiyiming
- State Key Laboratory of Chemistry and Utilization of Carbon Based Energy Resources College of Chemistry Xinjiang University Urumqi 830046 Xinjiang PR China
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16
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Intisar A, Shin HY, Kim W, Kang HG, Kim MY, Kim YS, Cho Y, Mo YJ, Lim H, Lee S, Lu QR, Lee Y, Kim MS. Implantable Electroceutical Approach Improves Myelination by Restoring Membrane Integrity in a Mouse Model of Peripheral Demyelinating Neuropathy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2201358. [PMID: 35975427 PMCID: PMC9661852 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202201358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Although many efforts are undertaken to treat peripheral demyelinating neuropathies based on biochemical interventions, unfortunately, there is no approved treatment yet. Furthermore, previous studies have not shown improvement of the myelin membrane at the biomolecular level. Here, an electroceutical treatment is introduced as a biophysical intervention to treat Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease-the most prevalent peripheral demyelinating neuropathy worldwide-using a mouse model. The specific electrical stimulation (ES) condition (50 mV mm-1 , 20 Hz, 1 h) for optimal myelination is found via an in vitro ES screening system, and its promyelinating effect is validated with ex vivo dorsal root ganglion model. Biomolecular investigation via time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry shows that ES ameliorates distribution abnormalities of peripheral myelin protein 22 and cholesterol in the myelin membrane, revealing the restoration of myelin membrane integrity. ES intervention in vivo via flexible implantable electrodes shows not only gradual rehabilitation of mouse behavioral phenotypes (balance and endurance), but also restored myelin thickness, compactness, and membrane integrity. This study demonstrates, for the first time, that an electroceutical approach with the optimal ES condition has the potential to treat CMT disease and restore impaired myelin membrane integrity, shifting the paradigm toward practical interventions for peripheral demyelinating neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aseer Intisar
- Department of New BiologyDGISTDaegu42988Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Young Shin
- CTCELLS Corp.Daegu42988Republic of Korea
- SBCure Corp.Daegu43017Republic of Korea
| | | | - Hyun Gyu Kang
- Department of New BiologyDGISTDaegu42988Republic of Korea
| | - Min Young Kim
- Department of New BiologyDGISTDaegu42988Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Seon Kim
- Well Aging Research CenterDGISTDaegu42988Republic of Korea
| | - Youngjun Cho
- Department of Robotics and Mechatronics EngineeringDGISTDaegu42988Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Jeoung Mo
- Well Aging Research CenterDGISTDaegu42988Republic of Korea
| | - Heejin Lim
- Department of New BiologyDGISTDaegu42988Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- Department of Robotics and Mechatronics EngineeringDGISTDaegu42988Republic of Korea
| | - Q. Richard Lu
- Department of PediatricsCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical CenterCincinnatiOH45229USA
| | - Yun‐Il Lee
- Well Aging Research CenterDGISTDaegu42988Republic of Korea
| | - Minseok S. Kim
- Department of New BiologyDGISTDaegu42988Republic of Korea
- CTCELLS Corp.Daegu42988Republic of Korea
- Translational Responsive Medicine Center (TRMC)DGISTDaegu42988Republic of Korea
- New Biology Research Center (NBRC)DGISTDaegu42988Republic of Korea
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17
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Coles L, Oluwasanya PW, Karam N, Proctor CM. Fluidic enabled bioelectronic implants: opportunities and challenges. J Mater Chem B 2022; 10:7122-7131. [PMID: 35959561 PMCID: PMC9518646 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb00942k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Bioelectronic implants are increasingly facilitating novel strategies for clinical diagnosis and treatment. The integration of fluidic technologies into such implants enables new complementary routes for sensing and therapy alongside electrical interaction. Indeed, these two technologies, electrical and fluidic, can work synergistically in a bioelectronics implant towards the fabrication of a complete therapeutic platform. In this perspective article, the leading applications of fluidic enabled bioelectronic implants are highlighted and methods of operation and material choices are discussed. Furthermore, a forward-looking perspective is offered on emerging opportunities as well as critical materials and technological challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Coles
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Pelumi W Oluwasanya
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Nuzli Karam
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Christopher M Proctor
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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18
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A flexible implantable microelectrode array for recording electrocorticography signals from rodents. Biomed Microdevices 2022; 24:31. [PMID: 36138255 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-022-00632-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Electrocorticography signals, the intracranial recording of electrical signatures of the brain, are recorded by non-penetrating planar electrode arrays placed on the cortical surface. Flexible electrode arrays minimize the tissue damage upon implantation. This work shows the design and development of a 32-channel flexible microelectrode array to record electrocorticography signals from the rat's brain. The array was fabricated on a biocompatible flexible polyimide substrate. A titanium/gold layer was patterned as electrodes, and a thin polyimide layer was used for insulation. The fabricated microelectrode array was mounted on the exposed somatosensory cortex of the right hemisphere of a rat after craniotomy and incision of the dura. The signals were recorded using OpenBCI Cyton Daisy Biosensing Boards. The array faithfully recorded the baseline electrocorticography signals, the induced epileptic activities after applying a convulsant, and the recovered baseline signals after applying an antiepileptic drug. The signals recorded by such fabricated microelectrode array from anesthetized rats demonstrate its potential to monitor electrical signatures corresponding to epilepsy. Finally, the time-frequency analyses highlight the difference in spatiotemporal features of baseline and evoked epileptic discharges.
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19
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Mariello M, Kim K, Wu K, Lacour SP, Leterrier Y. Recent Advances in Encapsulation of Flexible Bioelectronic Implants: Materials, Technologies, and Characterization Methods. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2201129. [PMID: 35353928 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202201129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Bioelectronic implantable systems (BIS) targeting biomedical and clinical research should combine long-term performance and biointegration in vivo. Here, recent advances in novel encapsulations to protect flexible versions of such systems from the surrounding biological environment are reviewed, focusing on material strategies and synthesis techniques. Considerable effort is put on thin-film encapsulation (TFE), and specifically organic-inorganic multilayer architectures as a flexible and conformal alternative to conventional rigid cans. TFE is in direct contact with the biological medium and thus must exhibit not only biocompatibility, inertness, and hermeticity but also mechanical robustness, conformability, and compatibility with the manufacturing of microfabricated devices. Quantitative characterization methods of the barrier and mechanical performance of the TFE are reviewed with a particular emphasis on water-vapor transmission rate through electrical, optical, or electrochemical principles. The integrability and functionalization of TFE into functional bioelectronic interfaces are also discussed. TFE represents a must-have component for the next-generation bioelectronic implants with diagnostic or therapeutic functions in human healthcare and precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Mariello
- Laboratory for Processing of Advanced Composites (LPAC), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Kyungjin Kim
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Electrical and MicroEngineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kangling Wu
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Electrical and MicroEngineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stéphanie P Lacour
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Electrical and MicroEngineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Yves Leterrier
- Laboratory for Processing of Advanced Composites (LPAC), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland
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20
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Barra B, Conti S, Perich MG, Zhuang K, Schiavone G, Fallegger F, Galan K, James ND, Barraud Q, Delacombaz M, Kaeser M, Rouiller EM, Milekovic T, Lacour S, Bloch J, Courtine G, Capogrosso M. Epidural electrical stimulation of the cervical dorsal roots restores voluntary upper limb control in paralyzed monkeys. Nat Neurosci 2022; 25:924-934. [PMID: 35773543 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-022-01106-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Regaining arm control is a top priority for people with paralysis. Unfortunately, the complexity of the neural mechanisms underlying arm control has limited the effectiveness of neurotechnology approaches. Here, we exploited the neural function of surviving spinal circuits to restore voluntary arm and hand control in three monkeys with spinal cord injury, using spinal cord stimulation. Our neural interface leverages the functional organization of the dorsal roots to convey artificial excitation via electrical stimulation to relevant spinal segments at appropriate movement phases. Stimulation bursts targeting specific spinal segments produced sustained arm movements, enabling monkeys with arm paralysis to perform an unconstrained reach-and-grasp task. Stimulation specifically improved strength, task performances and movement quality. Electrophysiology suggested that residual descending inputs were necessary to produce coordinated movements. The efficacy and reliability of our approach hold realistic promises of clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Barra
- Platform of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland.,Rehab and Neural Engineering Labs, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sara Conti
- Platform of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Matthew G Perich
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Katie Zhuang
- Platform of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Giuseppe Schiavone
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Florian Fallegger
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Katia Galan
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), University Hospital Lausanne (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL) and École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicholas D James
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Quentin Barraud
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), University Hospital Lausanne (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL) and École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Maude Delacombaz
- Platform of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), University Hospital Lausanne (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL) and École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mélanie Kaeser
- Platform of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Eric M Rouiller
- Platform of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Tomislav Milekovic
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), University Hospital Lausanne (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL) and École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stephanie Lacour
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jocelyne Bloch
- Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), University Hospital Lausanne (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL) and École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Grégoire Courtine
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), University Hospital Lausanne (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL) and École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Neurosurgery, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marco Capogrosso
- Platform of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland. .,Rehab and Neural Engineering Labs, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. .,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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21
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Pasquini M, James ND, Dewany I, Coen FV, Cho N, Lai S, Anil S, Carpaneto J, Barraud Q, Lacour SP, Micera S, Courtine G. Preclinical upper limb neurorobotic platform to assess, rehabilitate, and develop therapies. Sci Robot 2022; 7:eabk2378. [PMID: 35353601 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.abk2378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Numerous neurorehabilitative, neuroprosthetic, and repair interventions aim to address the consequences of upper limb impairments after neurological disorders. Although these therapies target widely different mechanisms, they share the common need for a preclinical platform that supports the development, assessment, and understanding of the therapy. Here, we introduce a neurorobotic platform for rats that meets these requirements. A four-degree-of-freedom end effector is interfaced with the rat's wrist, enabling unassisted to fully assisted execution of natural reaching and retrieval movements covering the entire body workspace. Multimodal recording capabilities permit precise quantification of upper limb movement recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI), which allowed us to uncover adaptations in corticospinal tract neuron dynamics underlying this recovery. Personalized movement assistance supported early neurorehabilitation that improved recovery after SCI. Last, the platform provided a well-controlled and practical environment to develop an implantable spinal cord neuroprosthesis that improved upper limb function after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pasquini
- Biorobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'anna, Pisa, Italy.,Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicholas D James
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (.NeuroRestore), EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Inssia Dewany
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (.NeuroRestore), EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Florent-Valéry Coen
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Center for Neuroprosthetics, Institute of Electrical and MicroEngineering and Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Newton Cho
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (.NeuroRestore), EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stefano Lai
- Biorobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Selin Anil
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (.NeuroRestore), EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jacopo Carpaneto
- Biorobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Quentin Barraud
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (.NeuroRestore), EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stéphanie P Lacour
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Center for Neuroprosthetics, Institute of Electrical and MicroEngineering and Institute of Bioengineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Silvestro Micera
- Biorobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'anna, Pisa, Italy.,Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Grégoire Courtine
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (.NeuroRestore), EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
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22
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Balakrishnan G, Song J, Mou C, Bettinger CJ. Recent Progress in Materials Chemistry to Advance Flexible Bioelectronics in Medicine. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2106787. [PMID: 34751987 PMCID: PMC8917047 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202106787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Designing bioelectronic devices that seamlessly integrate with the human body is a technological pursuit of great importance. Bioelectronic medical devices that reliably and chronically interface with the body can advance neuroscience, health monitoring, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Recent major efforts focus on investigating strategies to fabricate flexible, stretchable, and soft electronic devices, and advances in materials chemistry have emerged as fundamental to the creation of the next generation of bioelectronics. This review summarizes contemporary advances and forthcoming technical challenges related to three principal components of bioelectronic devices: i) substrates and structural materials, ii) barrier and encapsulation materials, and iii) conductive materials. Through notable illustrations from the literature, integration and device fabrication strategies and associated challenges for each material class are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jiwoo Song
- Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Chenchen Mou
- Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
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23
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Activity-dependent spinal cord neuromodulation rapidly restores trunk and leg motor functions after complete paralysis. Nat Med 2022; 28:260-271. [PMID: 35132264 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-021-01663-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Epidural electrical stimulation (EES) targeting the dorsal roots of lumbosacral segments restores walking in people with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, EES is delivered with multielectrode paddle leads that were originally designed to target the dorsal column of the spinal cord. Here, we hypothesized that an arrangement of electrodes targeting the ensemble of dorsal roots involved in leg and trunk movements would result in superior efficacy, restoring more diverse motor activities after the most severe SCI. To test this hypothesis, we established a computational framework that informed the optimal arrangement of electrodes on a new paddle lead and guided its neurosurgical positioning. We also developed software supporting the rapid configuration of activity-specific stimulation programs that reproduced the natural activation of motor neurons underlying each activity. We tested these neurotechnologies in three individuals with complete sensorimotor paralysis as part of an ongoing clinical trial ( www.clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT02936453). Within a single day, activity-specific stimulation programs enabled these three individuals to stand, walk, cycle, swim and control trunk movements. Neurorehabilitation mediated sufficient improvement to restore these activities in community settings, opening a realistic path to support everyday mobility with EES in people with SCI.
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24
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Turner B, Ramesh S, Menegatti S, Daniele M. Resorbable elastomers for implantable medical devices: highlights and applications. POLYM INT 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/pi.6349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brendan Turner
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering North Carolina State University and University of Chapel Hill Raleigh NC USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University Raleigh NC USA
| | - Srivatsan Ramesh
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University Raleigh NC USA
| | - Stefano Menegatti
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering North Carolina State University Raleigh NC USA
| | - Michael Daniele
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering North Carolina State University and University of Chapel Hill Raleigh NC USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering North Carolina State University Raleigh NC USA
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25
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Vuka I, Marciuš T, Kovačić D, Šarolić A, Puljak L, Sapunar D. Implantable, Programmable, and Wireless Device for Electrical Stimulation of the Dorsal Root Ganglion in Freely-Moving Rats: A Proof of Concept Study. J Pain Res 2021; 14:3759-3772. [PMID: 34916842 PMCID: PMC8668248 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s332438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This was a proof of concept study, based on systematic reviews of the efficacy and safety of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulation. The main objective was to develop an implantable, programmable, and wireless device for electrical stimulation of DRG and a methodology that can be used in translational research, especially to understand the mechanism of neuromodulation and to test new treatment modalities in animal models of pain. Methods We developed and tested a stimulator that uses a battery-powered microelectronic circuit, to generate constant current square biphasic or monophasic pulsed waveform of variable amplitudes and duration. It is controlled by software and an external controller that allows radio frequency communication with the stimulator. The stimulator was implanted in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. The lead was positioned at the L5 DRG level, while the stimulator was placed in the skin pocket at the ipsilateral side. Forty-five animals were used and divided into six groups: spinal nerve ligation (SNL), chronic compression injury of the DRG (CCD), SNL + active DRG stimulation, intact control group, group with the implanted sham stimulator, and sham lead. Behavioral testing was performed on the day preceding surgery and three times postoperatively (1st, 3rd, and 7th day). Results In animals with SNL, neurostimulation reduced pain-related behavior, tested with pinprick hyperalgesia, pinprick withdrawal test, and cold test, while the leads per se did not cause DRG compression. The rats well tolerated the stimulator. It did not hinder animal movement, and it enabled the animals to be housed under regular conditions. Conclusion A proof-of-concept experiment with our stimulator verified the usability of the device. The stimulator enables a wide range of research applications from adjusting stimulation parameters for different pain conditions, studying new stimulation methods with different frequencies and waveforms to obtain knowledge about analgesic mechanisms of DRG stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Vuka
- Laboratory for Pain Research, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Tihana Marciuš
- Laboratory for Pain Research, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - Damir Kovačić
- Laboratory for Biophysics and Medical Neuroelectronics, University of Split Faculty of Science, Split, Croatia
| | - Antonio Šarolić
- Laboratory for Applied Electromagnetics (EMLab), FESB, University of Split, Split, Croatia
| | - Livia Puljak
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine and Health Care, Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Damir Sapunar
- Laboratory for Pain Research, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
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26
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Tommasini G, Dufil G, Fardella F, Strakosas X, Fergola E, Abrahamsson T, Bliman D, Olsson R, Berggren M, Tino A, Stavrinidou E, Tortiglione C. Seamless integration of bioelectronic interface in an animal model via in vivo polymerization of conjugated oligomers. Bioact Mater 2021; 10:107-116. [PMID: 34901533 PMCID: PMC8637319 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Leveraging the biocatalytic machinery of living organisms for fabricating functional bioelectronic interfaces, in vivo, defines a new class of micro-biohybrids enabling the seamless integration of technology with living biological systems. Previously, we have demonstrated the in vivo polymerization of conjugated oligomers forming conductors within the structures of plants. Here, we expand this concept by reporting that Hydra, an invertebrate animal, polymerizes the conjugated oligomer ETE-S both within cells that expresses peroxidase activity and within the adhesive material that is secreted to promote underwater surface adhesion. The resulting conjugated polymer forms electronically conducting and electrochemically active μm-sized domains, which are inter-connected resulting in percolative conduction pathways extending beyond 100 μm, that are fully integrated within the Hydra tissue and the secreted mucus. Furthermore, the introduction and in vivo polymerization of ETE-S can be used as a biochemical marker to follow the dynamics of Hydra budding (reproduction) and regeneration. This work paves the way for well-defined self-organized electronics in animal tissue to modulate biological functions and in vivo biofabrication of hybrid functional materials and devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Tommasini
- Istituto di Scienze Applicate e Sistemi Intelligenti "E. Caianiello", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Gwennaël Dufil
- Laboratory of Organic Electronics, Department of Science and Technology, Linkoping University, SE-60174, Norrkoping, Sweden
| | - Federica Fardella
- Istituto di Scienze Applicate e Sistemi Intelligenti "E. Caianiello", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Xenofon Strakosas
- Laboratory of Organic Electronics, Department of Science and Technology, Linkoping University, SE-60174, Norrkoping, Sweden
| | - Eugenio Fergola
- Istituto di Scienze Applicate e Sistemi Intelligenti "E. Caianiello", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Tobias Abrahamsson
- Laboratory of Organic Electronics, Department of Science and Technology, Linkoping University, SE-60174, Norrkoping, Sweden
| | - David Bliman
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Roger Olsson
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, SE-221 84, Lund, Sweden
| | - Magnus Berggren
- Laboratory of Organic Electronics, Department of Science and Technology, Linkoping University, SE-60174, Norrkoping, Sweden
| | - Angela Tino
- Istituto di Scienze Applicate e Sistemi Intelligenti "E. Caianiello", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Eleni Stavrinidou
- Laboratory of Organic Electronics, Department of Science and Technology, Linkoping University, SE-60174, Norrkoping, Sweden
| | - Claudia Tortiglione
- Istituto di Scienze Applicate e Sistemi Intelligenti "E. Caianiello", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, Italy
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Chapman CAR, Cuttaz EA, Tahirbegi B, Novikov A, Petkos K, Koutsoftidis S, Drakakis EM, Goding JA, Green RA. Flexible Networks of Patterned Conducting Polymer Nanowires for Fully Polymeric Bioelectronics. ADVANCED NANOBIOMED RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/anbr.202100102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Estelle A. Cuttaz
- Department of Bioengineering Imperial College London South Kensington London SW7 2AZ UK
| | - Bogachan Tahirbegi
- Department of Bioengineering Imperial College London South Kensington London SW7 2AZ UK
| | - Alexey Novikov
- Department of Bioengineering Imperial College London South Kensington London SW7 2AZ UK
| | - Konstantinos Petkos
- Department of Bioengineering Imperial College London South Kensington London SW7 2AZ UK
- Center for Neurotechnology Imperial College London Prince Consort Road London SW7 2AZ UK
| | - Simos Koutsoftidis
- Department of Bioengineering Imperial College London South Kensington London SW7 2AZ UK
| | - Emmanuel M. Drakakis
- Department of Bioengineering Imperial College London South Kensington London SW7 2AZ UK
- Center for Neurotechnology Imperial College London Prince Consort Road London SW7 2AZ UK
| | - Josef A. Goding
- Department of Bioengineering Imperial College London South Kensington London SW7 2AZ UK
| | - Rylie A. Green
- Department of Bioengineering Imperial College London South Kensington London SW7 2AZ UK
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Vomero M, Schiavone G. Biomedical Microtechnologies Beyond Scholarly Impact. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:mi12121471. [PMID: 34945320 PMCID: PMC8709221 DOI: 10.3390/mi12121471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The recent tremendous advances in medical technology at the level of academic research have set high expectations for the clinical outcomes they promise to deliver. To the demise of patient hopes, however, the more disruptive and invasive a new technology is, the bigger the gap is separating the conceptualization of a medical device and its adoption into healthcare systems. When technology breakthroughs are reported in the biomedical scientific literature, news focus typically lies on medical implications rather than engineering progress, as the former are of higher appeal to a general readership. While successful therapy and diagnostics are indeed the ultimate goals, it is of equal importance to expose the engineering thinking needed to achieve such results and, critically, identify the challenges that still lie ahead. Here, we would like to provoke thoughts on the following questions, with particular focus on microfabricated medical devices: should research advancing the maturity and reliability of medical technology benefit from higher accessibility and visibility? How can the scientific community encourage and reward academic work on the overshadowed engineering aspects that will facilitate the evolution of laboratory samples into clinical devices?
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vomero
- BioEE Laboratory, Electrical Engineering Department, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA;
| | - Giuseppe Schiavone
- Research Management & Innovation Directorate, King’s College London, Tower Wing, Guy’s Hospital, London SE1 9RT, UK
- Correspondence:
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Yoo J, Shoaran M. Neural interface systems with on-device computing: machine learning and neuromorphic architectures. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2021; 72:95-101. [PMID: 34735990 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2021.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Development of neural interface and brain-machine interface (BMI) systems enables the treatment of neurological disorders including cognitive, sensory, and motor dysfunctions. While neural interfaces have steadily decreased in form factor, recent developments target pervasive implantables. Along with advances in electrodes, neural recording, and neurostimulation circuits, integration of disease biomarkers and machine learning algorithms enables real-time and on-site processing of neural activity with no need for power-demanding telemetry. This recent trend on combining artificial intelligence and machine learning with modern neural interfaces will lead to a new generation of low-power, smart, and miniaturized therapeutic devices for a wide range of neurological and psychiatric disorders. This paper reviews the recent development of the 'on-chip' machine learning and neuromorphic architectures, which is one of the key puzzles in devising next-generation clinically viable neural interface systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerald Yoo
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117585, Singapore; The N.1 Institute for Health, Singapore, Singapore, 117456, Singapore
| | - Mahsa Shoaran
- Institute of Electrical Engineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics, École polytechnique federal de Lausanne (EPFL), 1202, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Devi M, Vomero M, Fuhrer E, Castagnola E, Gueli C, Nimbalkar S, Hirabayashi M, Kassegne S, Stieglitz T, Sharma S. Carbon-based neural electrodes: promises and challenges. J Neural Eng 2021; 18. [PMID: 34404037 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac1e45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Neural electrodes are primary functional elements of neuroelectronic devices designed to record neural activity based on electrochemical signals. These electrodes may also be utilized for electrically stimulating the neural cells, such that their response can be simultaneously recorded. In addition to being medically safe, the electrode material should be electrically conductive and electrochemically stable under harsh biological environments. Mechanical flexibility and conformability, resistance to crack formation and compatibility with common microfabrication techniques are equally desirable properties. Traditionally, (noble) metals have been the preferred for neural electrode applications due to their proven biosafety and a relatively high electrical conductivity. Carbon is a recent addition to this list, which is far superior in terms of its electrochemical stability and corrosion resistance. Carbon has also enabled 3D electrode fabrication as opposed to the thin-film based 2D structures. One of carbon's peculiar aspects is its availability in a wide range of allotropes with specialized properties that render it highly versatile. These variations, however, also make it difficult to understand carbon itself as a unique material, and thus, each allotrope is often regarded independently. Some carbon types have already shown promising results in bioelectronic medicine, while many others remain potential candidates. In this topical review, we first provide a broad overview of the neuroelectronic devices and the basic requirements of an electrode material. We subsequently discuss the carbon family of materials and their properties that are useful in neural applications. Examples of devices fabricated using bulk and nano carbon materials are reviewed and critically compared. We then summarize the challenges, future prospects and next-generation carbon technology that can be helpful in the field of neural sciences. The article aims at providing a common platform to neuroscientists, electrochemists, biologists, microsystems engineers and carbon scientists to enable active and comprehensive efforts directed towards carbon-based neuroelectronic device fabrication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamta Devi
- School of Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand, Himachal Pradesh 175075, India
| | - Maria Vomero
- Bioelectronic Systems Laboratory, Columbia University, 500 West 120th Street, New York, NY 10027, United States of America
| | - Erwin Fuhrer
- School of Computing and Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand, Himachal Pradesh 175075 India
| | - Elisa Castagnola
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States of America
| | - Calogero Gueli
- Laboratory for Biomedical Microtechnology, Department of Microsystems Engineering-IMTEK, University of Freiburg, Georges-Koehler-Allee 080, 79110 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Surabhi Nimbalkar
- NanoFAB.SDSU Research Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, San Diego State University and NSF-ERC Center for Neurotechnology (CNT), 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182, United States of America
| | - Mieko Hirabayashi
- NanoFAB.SDSU Research Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, San Diego State University and NSF-ERC Center for Neurotechnology (CNT), 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182, United States of America
| | - Sam Kassegne
- NanoFAB.SDSU Research Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, San Diego State University and NSF-ERC Center for Neurotechnology (CNT), 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182, United States of America
| | - Thomas Stieglitz
- Laboratory for Biomedical Microtechnology, Department of Microsystems Engineering-IMTEK, University of Freiburg, Georges-Koehler-Allee 080, 79110 Freiburg, Germany.,BrainLinks-BrainTools Center, University of Freiburg, Georges-Koehler-Allee 080, 79110 Freiburg, Germany.,Bernstein Center Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Hansastr. 9a, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Swati Sharma
- School of Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand, Himachal Pradesh 175075, India
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31
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Mian SY, Honey JR, Carnicer-Lombarte A, Barone DG. Large Animal Studies to Reduce the Foreign Body Reaction in Brain-Computer Interfaces: A Systematic Review. BIOSENSORS 2021; 11:275. [PMID: 34436077 PMCID: PMC8392711 DOI: 10.3390/bios11080275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Brain-computer interfaces (BCI) are reliant on the interface between electrodes and neurons to function. The foreign body reaction (FBR) that occurs in response to electrodes in the brain alters this interface and may pollute detected signals, ultimately impeding BCI function. The size of the FBR is influenced by several key factors explored in this review; namely, (a) the size of the animal tested, (b) anatomical location of the BCI, (c) the electrode morphology and coating, (d) the mechanics of electrode insertion, and (e) pharmacological modification (e.g., drug eluting electrodes). Trialing methods to reduce FBR in vivo, particularly in large models, is important to enable further translation in humans, and we systematically reviewed the literature to this effect. The OVID, MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS and Scholar databases were searched. Compiled results were analysed qualitatively. Out of 8388 yielded articles, 13 were included for analysis, with most excluded studies experimenting on murine models. Cats, rabbits, and a variety of breeds of minipig/marmoset were trialed. On average, over 30% reduction in inflammatory cells of FBR on post mortem histology was noted across intervention groups. Similar strategies to those used in rodent models, including tip modification and flexible and sinusoidal electrode configurations, all produced good effects in histology; however, a notable absence of trials examining the effect on BCI end-function was noted. Future studies should assess whether the reduction in FBR correlates to an improvement in the functional effect of the intended BCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Yasin Mian
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BX, UK
| | - Jonathan Roy Honey
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0DF, UK;
| | | | - Damiano Giuseppe Barone
- Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0DF, UK;
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Reversible polymer-gel transition for ultra-stretchable chip-integrated circuits through self-soldering and self-coating and self-healing. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4666. [PMID: 34344880 PMCID: PMC8333313 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25008-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Integration of solid-state microchips into soft-matter, and stretchable printed electronics has been the biggest challenge against their scalable fabrication. We introduce, Pol-Gel, a simple technique for self-soldering, self-encapsulation, and self-healing, that allows low cost, scalable, and rapid fabrication of hybrid microchip-integrated ultra-stretchable circuits. After digitally printing the circuit, and placing the microchips, we trigger a Polymer-Gel transition in physically cross-linked block copolymers substrate, and silver liquid metal composite ink, by exposing the circuits to the solvent vapor. Once in the gel state, microchips penetrate to the ink and the substrate (Self-Soldering), and the ink penetrates to the substrate (Self-encapsulation). Maximum strain tolerance of ~1200% for printed stretchable traces, and >500% for chip-integrated soft circuits is achieved, which is 5x higher than the previous works. We demonstrate condensed soft-matter patches and e-textiles with integrated sensors, processors, and wireless communication, and repairing of a fully cut circuits through Pol-Gel. Despite advances on fabrication of stretchable interconnects, realizing functional electronics with integrated solid-state technology (SST) remains a challenge. Here, the authors report a reversible Pol-Gel transition method for fabrication of liquid-metal based, chip-integrated, printed stretchable circuits.
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33
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Shokur S, Mazzoni A, Schiavone G, Weber DJ, Micera S. A modular strategy for next-generation upper-limb sensory-motor neuroprostheses. MED 2021; 2:912-937. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medj.2021.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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34
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Wang D, Tan J, Zhu H, Mei Y, Liu X. Biomedical Implants with Charge-Transfer Monitoring and Regulating Abilities. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:e2004393. [PMID: 34166584 PMCID: PMC8373130 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202004393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Transmembrane charge (ion/electron) transfer is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and is involved in many biological processes, from protein synthesis to embryonic development in organisms. Designing implant devices that can detect or regulate cellular transmembrane charge transfer is expected to sense and modulate the behaviors of host cells and tissues. Thus, charge transfer can be regarded as a bridge connecting living systems and human-made implantable devices. This review describes the mode and mechanism of charge transfer between organisms and nonliving materials, and summarizes the strategies to endow implants with charge-transfer regulating or monitoring abilities. Furthermore, three major charge-transfer controlling systems, including wired, self-activated, and stimuli-responsive biomedical implants, as well as the design principles and pivotal materials are systematically elaborated. The clinical challenges and the prospects for future development of these implant devices are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine MicrostructureShanghai Institutes of CeramicsChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai200050China
- School of Materials Science and EngineeringHebei University of TechnologyTianjin300130China
| | - Ji Tan
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine MicrostructureShanghai Institutes of CeramicsChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai200050China
| | - Hongqin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine MicrostructureShanghai Institutes of CeramicsChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai200050China
- Department of Materials ScienceFudan UniversityShanghai200433China
| | - Yongfeng Mei
- Department of Materials ScienceFudan UniversityShanghai200433China
| | - Xuanyong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine MicrostructureShanghai Institutes of CeramicsChinese Academy of SciencesShanghai200050China
- School of Chemistry and Materials ScienceHangzhou Institute for Advanced StudyUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhou310024China
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35
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Samejima S, Khorasani A, Ranganathan V, Nakahara J, Tolley NM, Boissenin A, Shalchyan V, Daliri MR, Smith JR, Moritz CT. Brain-Computer-Spinal Interface Restores Upper Limb Function After Spinal Cord Injury. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2021; 29:1233-1242. [PMID: 34138712 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2021.3090269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are an emerging strategy for spinal cord injury (SCI) intervention that may be used to reanimate paralyzed limbs. This approach requires decoding movement intention from the brain to control movement-evoking stimulation. Common decoding methods use spike-sorting and require frequent calibration and high computational complexity. Furthermore, most applications of closed-loop stimulation act on peripheral nerves or muscles, resulting in rapid muscle fatigue. Here we show that a local field potential-based BCI can control spinal stimulation and improve forelimb function in rats with cervical SCI. We decoded forelimb movement via multi-channel local field potentials in the sensorimotor cortex using a canonical correlation analysis algorithm. We then used this decoded signal to trigger epidural spinal stimulation and restore forelimb movement. Finally, we implemented this closed-loop algorithm in a miniaturized onboard computing platform. This Brain-Computer-Spinal Interface (BCSI) utilized recording and stimulation approaches already used in separate human applications. Our goal was to demonstrate a potential neuroprosthetic intervention to improve function after upper extremity paralysis.
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Schiavone G, Vachicouras N, Vyza Y, Lacour SP. Dimensional scaling of thin-film stimulation electrode systems in translational research. J Neural Eng 2021; 18. [PMID: 33831857 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/abf607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Objective.Electrical stimulation of biological tissue is an established technique in research and clinical practice that uses implanted electrodes to deliver electrical pulses for a variety of therapies. Significant research currently explores new electrode system technologies and stimulation protocols in preclinical models, aiming at both improving the electrode performance and confirming therapeutic efficacy. Assessing the scalability of newly proposed electrode technology and their use for tissue stimulation remains, however, an open question.Approach.We propose a simplified electrical model that formalizes the dimensional scaling of stimulation electrode systems. We use established equations describing the electrode impedance, and apply them to the case of stimulation electrodes driven by a voltage-capped pulse generator.Main results.We find a hard, intrinsic upward scalability limit to the electrode radius that largely depends on the conductor technology. We finally provide a simple analytical formula predicting the maximum size of a stimulation electrode as a function of the stimulation parameters and conductor resistance.Significance.Our results highlight the importance of careful geometrical and electrical designs of electrode systems based on novel thin-film technologies and that become particularly relevant for their translational implementation with electrode geometries approaching clinical human size electrodes and interfacing with voltage-capped neurostimulation systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Schiavone
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Vachicouras
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Yashwanth Vyza
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stéphanie P Lacour
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
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Schaller K, Iannotti GR, Orepic P, Betka S, Haemmerli J, Boex C, Alcoba-Banqueri S, Garin DFA, Herbelin B, Park HD, Michel CM, Blanke O. The perspectives of mapping and monitoring of the sense of self in neurosurgical patients. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2021; 163:1213-1226. [PMID: 33686522 PMCID: PMC8053654 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-021-04778-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Surgical treatment of tumors, epileptic foci or of vascular origin, requires a detailed individual pre-surgical workup and intra-operative surveillance of brain functions to minimize the risk of post-surgical neurological deficits and decline of quality of life. Most attention is attributed to language, motor functions, and perception. However, higher cognitive functions such as social cognition, personality, and the sense of self may be affected by brain surgery. To date, the precise localization and the network patterns of brain regions involved in such functions are not yet fully understood, making the assessment of risks of related post-surgical deficits difficult. It is in the interest of neurosurgeons to understand with which neural systems related to selfhood and personality they are interfering during surgery. Recent neuroscience research using virtual reality and clinical observations suggest that the insular cortex, medial prefrontal cortex, and temporo-parietal junction are important components of a neural system dedicated to self-consciousness based on multisensory bodily processing, including exteroceptive and interoceptive cues (bodily self-consciousness (BSC)). Here, we argue that combined extra- and intra-operative approaches using targeted cognitive testing, functional imaging and EEG, virtual reality, combined with multisensory stimulations, may contribute to the assessment of the BSC and related cognitive aspects. Although the usefulness of particular biomarkers, such as cardiac and respiratory signals linked to virtual reality, and of heartbeat evoked potentials as a surrogate marker for intactness of multisensory integration for intra-operative monitoring has to be proved, systemic and automatized testing of BSC in neurosurgical patients will improve future surgical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Schaller
- Department of Neurosurgery, Geneva University Medical Center & Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Giannina Rita Iannotti
- Department of Neurosurgery, Geneva University Medical Center & Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
- Functional Brain Mapping Laboratory, Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pavo Orepic
- Laboratory of Neurocognitive Science, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sophie Betka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Geneva University Medical Center & Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Neurocognitive Science, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julien Haemmerli
- Department of Neurosurgery, Geneva University Medical Center & Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Colette Boex
- Department of Neurosurgery, Geneva University Medical Center & Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Geneva University Medical Center & Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sixto Alcoba-Banqueri
- Laboratory of Neurocognitive Science, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dorian F A Garin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Geneva University Medical Center & Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Herbelin
- Laboratory of Neurocognitive Science, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Hyeong-Dong Park
- Laboratory of Neurocognitive Science, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christoph M Michel
- Functional Brain Mapping Laboratory, Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Olaf Blanke
- Laboratory of Neurocognitive Science, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Geneva University Medical Center & Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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38
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Llerena Zambrano B, Renz AF, Ruff T, Lienemann S, Tybrandt K, Vörös J, Lee J. Soft Electronics Based on Stretchable and Conductive Nanocomposites for Biomedical Applications. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2001397. [PMID: 33205564 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202001397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Research on the field of implantable electronic devices that can be directly applied in the body with various functionalities is increasingly intensifying due to its great potential for various therapeutic applications. While conventional implantable electronics generally include rigid and hard conductive materials, their surrounding biological objects are soft and dynamic. The mechanical mismatch between implanted devices and biological environments induces damages in the body especially for long-term applications. Stretchable electronics with outstanding mechanical compliance with biological objects effectively improve such limitations of existing rigid implantable electronics. In this article, the recent progress of implantable soft electronics based on various conductive nanocomposites is systematically described. In particular, representative fabrication approaches of conductive and stretchable nanocomposites for implantable soft electronics and various in vivo applications of implantable soft electronics are focused on. To conclude, challenges and perspectives of current implantable soft electronics that should be considered for further advances are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byron Llerena Zambrano
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics ETH Zurich Gloriastrasse 35 Zurich 8092 Switzerland
| | - Aline F. Renz
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics ETH Zurich Gloriastrasse 35 Zurich 8092 Switzerland
| | - Tobias Ruff
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics ETH Zurich Gloriastrasse 35 Zurich 8092 Switzerland
| | - Samuel Lienemann
- Laboratory of Organic Electronics Department of Science and Technology Linköping University Norrköping 601 74 Sweden
| | - Klas Tybrandt
- Laboratory of Organic Electronics Department of Science and Technology Linköping University Norrköping 601 74 Sweden
| | - János Vörös
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics ETH Zurich Gloriastrasse 35 Zurich 8092 Switzerland
| | - Jaehong Lee
- Department of Robotics Engineering Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST) 333 Techno jungan‐dareo Daegu 42988 South Korea
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Greiner N, Barra B, Schiavone G, Lorach H, James N, Conti S, Kaeser M, Fallegger F, Borgognon S, Lacour S, Bloch J, Courtine G, Capogrosso M. Recruitment of upper-limb motoneurons with epidural electrical stimulation of the cervical spinal cord. Nat Commun 2021; 12:435. [PMID: 33469022 PMCID: PMC7815834 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20703-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidural electrical stimulation (EES) of lumbosacral sensorimotor circuits improves leg motor control in animals and humans with spinal cord injury (SCI). Upper-limb motor control involves similar circuits, located in the cervical spinal cord, suggesting that EES could also improve arm and hand movements after quadriplegia. However, the ability of cervical EES to selectively modulate specific upper-limb motor nuclei remains unclear. Here, we combined a computational model of the cervical spinal cord with experiments in macaque monkeys to explore the mechanisms of upper-limb motoneuron recruitment with EES and characterize the selectivity of cervical interfaces. We show that lateral electrodes produce a segmental recruitment of arm motoneurons mediated by the direct activation of sensory afferents, and that muscle responses to EES are modulated during movement. Intraoperative recordings suggested similar properties in humans at rest. These modelling and experimental results can be applied for the development of neurotechnologies designed for the improvement of arm and hand control in humans with quadriplegia. The efficacy of epidural electrical stimulation (EES) to engage arm muscles and improve movement after spinal cord injury is still unclear. Here, the authors investigated how EES can recruit upper-limb motor neurons by combining computational modelling with experiments in non-human primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Greiner
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland. .,Department of Neuroscience and Movement Science, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland.
| | - Beatrice Barra
- Department of Neuroscience and Movement Science, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Giuseppe Schiavone
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronics Interface, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Henri Lorach
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicholas James
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sara Conti
- Department of Neuroscience and Movement Science, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Melanie Kaeser
- Department of Neuroscience and Movement Science, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Florian Fallegger
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronics Interface, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Simon Borgognon
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Neuroscience and Movement Science, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Stéphanie Lacour
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronics Interface, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jocelyne Bloch
- Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Neurosurgery, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Grégoire Courtine
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland.,Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Neurosurgery, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marco Capogrosso
- Department of Neuroscience and Movement Science, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland. .,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. .,Rehab and Neural Engineering Labs, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Schiavone G, Kang X, Fallegger F, Gandar J, Courtine G, Lacour SP. Guidelines to Study and Develop Soft Electrode Systems for Neural Stimulation. Neuron 2020; 108:238-258. [PMID: 33120021 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2020.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Electrical stimulation of nervous structures is a widely used experimental and clinical method to probe neural circuits, perform diagnostics, or treat neurological disorders. The recent introduction of soft materials to design electrodes that conform to and mimic neural tissue led to neural interfaces with improved functionality and biointegration. The shift from stiff to soft electrode materials requires adaptation of the models and characterization methods to understand and predict electrode performance. This guideline aims at providing (1) an overview of the most common techniques to test soft electrodes in vitro and in vivo; (2) a step-by-step design of a complete study protocol, from the lab bench to in vivo experiments; (3) a case study illustrating the characterization of soft spinal electrodes in rodents; and (4) examples of how interpreting characterization data can inform experimental decisions. Comprehensive characterization is paramount to advancing soft neurotechnology that meets the requisites for long-term functionality in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Schiavone
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Xiaoyang Kang
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Florian Fallegger
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jérôme Gandar
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Grégoire Courtine
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stéphanie P Lacour
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland.
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How is flexible electronics advancing neuroscience research? Biomaterials 2020; 268:120559. [PMID: 33310538 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Innovative neurotechnology must be leveraged to experimentally answer the multitude of pressing questions in modern neuroscience. Driven by the desire to address the existing neuroscience problems with newly engineered tools, we discuss in this review the benefits of flexible electronics for neuroscience studies. We first introduce the concept and define the properties of flexible and stretchable electronics. We then categorize the four dimensions where flexible electronics meets the demands of modern neuroscience: chronic stability, interfacing multiple structures, multi-modal compatibility, and neuron-type-specific recording. Specifically, with the bending stiffness now approaching that of neural tissue, implanted flexible electronic devices produce little shear motion, minimizing chronic immune responses and enabling recording and stimulation for months, and even years. The unique mechanical properties of flexible electronics also allow for intimate conformation to the brain, the spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and the retina. Moreover, flexible electronics enables optogenetic stimulation, microfluidic drug delivery, and neural activity imaging during electrical stimulation and recording. Finally, flexible electronics can enable neuron-type identification through analysis of high-fidelity recorded action potentials facilitated by its seamless integration with the neural circuitry. We argue that flexible electronics will play an increasingly important role in neuroscience studies and neurological therapies via the fabrication of neuromorphic devices on flexible substrates and the development of enhanced methods of neuronal interpenetration.
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Graudejus O, Barton C, Ponce Wong RD, Rowan CC, Oswalt D, Greger B. A soft and stretchable bilayer electrode array with independent functional layers for the next generation of brain machine interfaces. J Neural Eng 2020; 17:056023. [PMID: 33052886 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/abb4a5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Brain-Machine Interfaces (BMIs) hold great promises for advancing neuroprosthetics, robotics, and for providing treatment options for severe neurological diseases. The objective of this work is the development and in vivo evaluation of electrodes for BMIs that meet the needs to record brain activity at sub-millimeter resolution over a large area of the cortex while being soft and electromechanically robust (i.e. stretchable). APPROACH Current electrodes require a trade-off between high spatiotemporal resolution and cortical coverage area. To address the needs for simultaneous high resolution and large cortical coverage, the prototype electrode array developed in this study employs a novel bilayer routing of soft and stretchable lead wires from the recording sites on the surface of the brain (electrocorticography, ECoG) to the data acquisition system. MAIN RESULTS To validate the recording characteristics, the array was implanted in healthy felines for up to 5 months. Neural signals recorded from both layers of the device showed elevated mid-frequency structures typical of local field potential (LFP) signals that were stable in amplitude over implant duration, and also exhibited consistent frequency-dependent modulation after anesthesia induction by Telazol. SIGNIFICANCE The successful development of a soft and stretchable large-area, high resolution micro ECoG electrode array (lahrμECoG) is an important step to meet the neurotechnological needs of advanced BMI applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Graudejus
- School of Molecular Science, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, United States of America. BMSEED, Phoenix, AZ, United States of America
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Shur M, Fallegger F, Pirondini E, Roux A, Bichat A, Barraud Q, Courtine G, Lacour SP. Soft Printable Electrode Coating for Neural Interfaces. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2020; 3:4388-4397. [DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c00401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Shur
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva 1202, Switzerland
| | - Florian Fallegger
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva 1202, Switzerland
| | - Elvira Pirondini
- Department of Radiology and Medical Informatics, University of Geneva, Geneva 1211, Switzerland
- Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne 1015, Switzerland
| | - Adrien Roux
- Tissue Engineering Laboratory, HEPIA - HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Geneva 1202, Switzerland
- Swiss Center for Applied Human Toxicology (SCAHT), Basel 4055, Switzerland
| | - Arnaud Bichat
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva 1202, Switzerland
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne 1002, Switzerland
- Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne 1015, Switzerland
| | - Quentin Barraud
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne 1002, Switzerland
- Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne 1015, Switzerland
| | - Grégoire Courtine
- Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne 1002, Switzerland
- Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne 1015, Switzerland
| | - Stéphanie P. Lacour
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva 1202, Switzerland
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