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Host tissue response to floating microelectrode arrays chronically implanted in the feline spinal nerve
Christi L Kolarcik1,2,3,4,5, Carlos A Castro6, Andrew Lesniak7
1Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States of America.
Journal of Neural Engineering
|May 21, 2020
Summary
Neural interfaces using the dorsal root ganglion-ventral root (DRG-VR) complex show tissue inflammation and reduced neuronal density. Mitigating these tissue responses is crucial for developing long-term, reliable neural interfaces for limb loss.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neuroscience
- Materials Science
Background:
- Neural interfacing technologies offer potential for restoring function in individuals with limb loss.
- Both motor command recording and sensory feedback stimulation are essential for effective neural interfaces.
- The dorsal root ganglion-ventral root (DRG-VR) complex is a promising target for such technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the viability of the DRG-VR complex for chronic neural interfacing.
- To characterize the tissue response to implanted microelectrode arrays in the DRG-VR complex.
- To identify challenges and guide future development of neural interfaces.
Main Methods:
- Chronic implantation of floating microelectrode arrays in the DRG-VR complex.
- Histological analysis using Hematoxylin and eosin and Nissl/Luxol fast blue staining.
- Quantification of cellular responses (MAC387, NF200, S100, vimentin, GLUT1) via pixel-based image analysis.
Main Results:
- Chronic implantation induced a tissue response similar to central nervous system sites, with increased inflammation (MAC387+ cells).
- Significant decreases in neuronal density and myelination were observed in both the ventral root (VR) and dorsal root ganglion (DRG).
- Reductions in neurofilament 200 (NF200) in the VR were transient (less than ten weeks), suggesting tissue remodeling.
Conclusions:
- The DRG-VR complex presents a viable site for neural interfacing, but the associated tissue response is a significant hurdle.
- Continued research is necessary to develop strategies for mitigating inflammation and tissue damage.
- Overcoming these challenges is critical for achieving long-term, reliable neural interface function.
