Next Generation Implantable Neural Interface Microsystems

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Nature: In the past decade, implantable neural interface microsystems have shown promising results in detection and control of severe brain disorders. Accurate capture of these diseases, which often originate in multiple regions of the brain, demands microsystems with a rapidly-growing need for higher number of channels to acquire high-precision sensory data from a large area of the brain. This research program will respond to the rising technological challenges due to the scaling of implantable neural interfaces, by investigating a design paradigm shift from a centralized highly-integrated microsystem to a distributed wireless network of sensor nodes. ******Significance: The program will investigate the technical viability of such paradigm shift by (i) modeling, simulation, and prototype development and characterization to determine the optimal physical and electrical specifications of wireless free-floating single-chip sensor nodes that have antenna, electrodes, and electronic circuits integrated on them (ii) development and optimization of an inductive power transfer link that is resilient against movements and random environment variations surrounding sensor nodes, and (iii) investigating link throughput limitations and addressing data interference issues associated with employing a passive backscattering method that reuses the inductive power transfer link for sensory data communication.******Outcomes: The proposed research program will advance science and technology in the areas of microelectronics and neuro-technology. The results from experimental characterization of the developed prototypes will be used to better understand and resolve the scalability limitations associated with the current state of technology for implantable sensory microsystems. Once fully realized, the proposed research will also lead to a fully-wireless ubiquitous sensing platform that will fill the technology gaps for conducting research not only in neuroscience, but also in several other fields including but not limited to biochemistry and bio-robotics.******Benefits: There are over one billion people worldwide (3.6 million in Canada) who suffer from at least one type of neurological disorder. Successful completion of this program will enable the development of next generation implantable neural interfaces with application in both diagnostic and treatment of brain disorders in patients who are refractory to currently-available solutions. Moreover, implantable therapies for each one of epilepsy, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases are estimated to have over a billion dollar market in North America. This research program will provide technology transfer opportunities in both forms of commercialization of the developed prototypes as a medical device, as well as licensing the developed circuit and system intellectual property to neuro-technology companies, including in Canada.