Targeted delivery of neurochemicals and biomolecules for neuromodulation of brain activity is a powerful technique that, in addition to electrical recording and stimulation, enables a more thorough investigation of neural circuit dynamics. We have designed a novel, flexible, implantable neural probe capable of controlled, localized chemical stimulation and electrophysiology recording. The neural probe was implemented using planar micromachining processes on Parylene C, a mechanically flexible, biocompatible substrate.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe primate brain is a densely interconnected organ whose function is best understood by recording from the entire structure in parallel, rather than parts of it in sequence. However, available methods either have limited temporal resolution (functional magnetic resonance imaging), limited spatial resolution (macroscopic electroencephalography), or a limited field of view (microscopic electrophysiology). To address this need, we developed a volumetric, mesoscopic recording approach ( ) by tessellating the volume of a monkey hemisphere with 992 electrode contacts that were distributed across 62 chronically implanted multi-electrode shafts.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFDeciphering the function of neural circuits can help with the understanding of brain function and treating neurological disorders. Progress toward this goal relies on the development of chronically stable neural interfaces capable of recording and modulating neural circuits with high spatial and temporal precision across large areas of the brain. Advanced innovations in designing high-density neural interfaces for small animal models have enabled breakthrough discoveries in neuroscience research.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFMicroelectrode arrays provide the means to record electrophysiological activity critical to brain research. Despite its fundamental role, there are no means to customize electrode layouts to address specific experimental or clinical needs. Moreover, current electrodes demonstrate substantial limitations in coverage, fragility, and expense.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFUnderstanding the neural basis of brain function and dysfunction and designing effective therapeutics require high resolution targeted stimulation and recording of neural activity. Optical methods have been recently developed for neural stimulation as well as functional and structural imaging. These methods call for implantable devices to deliver light into the neural tissue at depth with high spatiotemporal resolution.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFOptical stimulation and imaging of neurons deep in the brain require implantable optical neural probes. External optical access to deeper regions of the brain is limited by scattering and absorption of light as it propagates through tissue. Implantable optoelectronic probes capable of high-resolution light delivery and high-density neural recording are needed for closed-loop manipulation of neural circuits.
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