Selective Wireless Stimulation of Rat Sciatic Nerve^.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Neuroscience
• Implantable Devices

Background:

• Chronic stability of functional performance is a key challenge for implantable neural devices.
• Wireless technology integration may improve long-term performance and reduce mechanical failures in neural devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the long-term stability of Wireless Floating Microelectrode Arrays (WMFAs).
• To assess the ability of WFMAs to selectively recruit hind limb muscles via neural stimulation in rats.

Main Methods:

• Implantation of WFMAs into rat sciatic nerves (n=6).
• Evaluation of selective muscle recruitment (plantar flexion, dorsiflexion) through neural stimulation.
• Assessment of motor thresholds, movement patterns, and overall limb function for over 8 weeks.

Main Results:

• Stable and selective motor recruitment (plantar flexion and dorsiflexion) was achieved throughout the study period.
• Low stimulation thresholds (as low as 4.1 μA) generated visible paw motion.
• Evoked limb motion was electrode-specific and dependent on intrafascicular electrode placement.
• Motor thresholds and movement patterns remained stable for more than 8 weeks post-implantation.
• No significant changes in limb function were observed compared to control groups.

Conclusions:

• WMFAs with intrafascicular electrodes provide stable and selective motor recruitment in peripheral nerves.
• These devices demonstrate potential for long-term neural stimulation applications without adverse effects on overall limb function.