Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026

Insertion of Flexible Neural Probes Using Rigid Stiffeners Attached with Biodissolvable Adhesive
Published on: September 27, 2013
Controlled release drug coatings on flexible neural probes
Andre Mercanzini1, Sai Reddy, Diana Velluto
1Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, EPFL, Switzerland. andre.mercanzini@epfl.ch
Abstract:
We present the development, characterization and in vivo validation of a novel drug eluting coating that has been applied to flexible neural probes. The coating consists of drug eluting nanoparticles loaded with an anti-inflammatory drug embedded in a biodegradable polymer. The drug eluting coating is applied to flexible polymer neural probes with platinum electrodes. The drug eluting device is implanted in one hemisphere of a rat, while a control device is implanted in the opposite hemisphere. Impedance measurements are performed to determine the effect of the drug eluting coating on the tissue reaction surrounding the probe and the electrical characteristics of the devices. Probes that are coated with drug eluting coatings show better long term impedance characteristics over control probes. These coatings can be used to increase the reliability and long term success of neural prostheses.
Related Concept Videos
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Stimuli-Activated
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Rate-Programmed II
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Drug Release Characteristics
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Classification
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Rate-Programmed I
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Site-Targeted

