BIOELECTROACTIVE POLYMERS FOR INTERACTION WITH THE CORTEX
Relevant for Research Area
Summary
In BioEPIC we explore electrode materials, such as the conducting polymer poly(3,4- ethylene dioxythiophene) (PEDOT), to address challenges of neural implants. PEDOT coatings allows features, such as controlled delivery, to be integrated on implants without complex components adding to cost and weight of the system. In addition, PEDOT electronic properties can be merged with those of a hydrogel, tuning mechanical and biochemical properties further. In BioEPIC we have demonstrated that excellent recording and stimulation capability can be combined with biological functionality and stability, even under chronic conditions. In our continued work we target more powerful drug delivery via PEDOT/hydrogel hybrids. Performance will be analyzed by real-time monitoring of implant/tissue interaction via two-photon microscopy. Furthermore nanostructured Platinum (Pt) electrodes will be explored for providing probes with more energy efficient and potent stimulation electrodes.
Research Status
By integrating active delivery functionality of an anti-inflammatory drug, directly at the electrode site, we have demonstrated stable chronic recording functionality together with implanted flexible probes. In addition, we developed a completely new functionalization method enhancing the electrochemical qualities of Pt microelectrodes with a nanostructure. Thereby our electrodes outperformed other established materials and can contribute to more efficient microelectrodes on future probes.