Subcellular neural probes from single-crystal gold nanowires

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Neural electrode miniaturization is crucial for advanced neuroprosthetics, therapies for neurological diseases, and brain-computer interfaces.
• Current microelectrodes (tens to hundreds of micrometers) cause tissue damage and immune reactions, limiting long-term use.
• Reducing electrode size is essential to minimize brain tissue damage and chronic inflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop neural electrodes with subcellular dimensions for improved brain recording and diagnostics.
• To investigate the feasibility of using gold nanowires (NWs) for high-resolution neural activity monitoring.
• To demonstrate the potential of these novel electrodes in understanding brain function and disease.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of neural electrodes using single-crystalline gold nanowires (NWs) with diameters around 100 nm.
• Implantation of NW electrodes into a live mouse brain for in vivo recordings.
• Recording and analysis of single neuron activities and brain activity in response to social stimuli.

Main Results:

• Achieved implantation and recording of single neuron activities using ~100 nm diameter gold NW electrodes, a ~50x size reduction.
• Demonstrated improved spatial resolution in neural recordings and differentiation of brain activity during social interactions.
• Successfully localized an epileptic seizure center using a multielectrode probe, showcasing diagnostic potential.

Conclusions:

• Subcellular-sized gold NW electrodes are viable for high-fidelity single-neuron recording in vivo.
• These electrodes offer significant advantages in spatial resolution and diagnostic capabilities for neurological studies.
• This technology represents a pivotal advancement for chronic brain disease research and neuroprosthetic applications.