A novel 3-dimensional neural probe technology combining electrical and chemical interfaces

研究目标和方法：本研究的目标是开发具有电和化学结合界面的新一代三维(3D)神经探针。所提出的神经探针技术的方法基于灵活的皮肤技术和简单的折叠过程。智能优点：建议的技术简化了高密度3D电极阵列的制造和组装过程。此外，这项技术使微通道与3D神经探头集成成为可能。这些通道与电极一起，实现了电刺激和化学刺激的结合，从而为许多重要的新应用打开了大门。通过微通道在植入部位局部给药将是一种很有前途的方法来减少/抑制组织反应，这是成功进行慢性植入的主要障碍之一。广泛影响：所提出的神经探针有望对许多神经疾病的治疗产生重大影响，如瘫痪、难治性癫痫、帕金森？S病、阿尔茨海默病？S病、失明、耳聋和耳鸣。这些探头还将帮助我们更好地了解大脑的运作，这是3D空间分辨率和多模式刺激/传感能力的结果。新的方法和发现将被纳入到徐教授开发的微/纳米机电系统课程中。该教育计划的一个独特组成部分是对医学博士/博士学生的培训。这个团队致力于扩大代表不足的群体的参与，派？S在底特律公立学校少数民族学生研究学徒计划中的积极作用就是明证。

AbstractResearch objectives and approaches: The objective of this research is to develop next generation 3-dimensional (3D) neural probes with combined electrical and chemical interfaces. The approach of the proposed neural probe technology is based on a flexible skin technology and a simple folding process. Intellectual merit: The proposed technology simplifies the fabrication and assembly process of high density 3D arrays of electrodes. Furthermore, this technology enables integration of microchannels with 3D neural probes. These channels, together with electrodes, enable combined electrical and chemical stimulation, thus opening the door to many important new applications. Local drug delivery at the implantation site by microchannels would be a promising approach to reduce/suppress tissue response, one of the major obstacles for successful chronic implantation.Broader impacts: The proposed neural probes are expected to make a significant impact on treatment of many neural disorders such as paralysis, refractory epilepsy, Parkinson?s disease, Alzheimer?s disease, blindness, deafness, and tinnitus. These probes will also help us to better understand the operation of the brain, as a result of the 3D spatial resolution and multi-modal stimulating/sensing capability. The new methods and findings will be incorporated into a Micro/Nano-Electro-Mechanical Systems course developed by Prof. Xu. A unique component of the education plan is the training of an MD/Ph.D student. This team is committed to broaden the participation of underrepresented groups, evidenced by the PI?s active role in the Research Apprentice Program for Minority Students in Detroit Public Schools.