Biochemically-functionalized probes for cell type-specific targeting and recording in the brain

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Understanding neural circuitry requires selective targeting of specific cell types and neuron subtypes.
• Current brain-implantable electronics lack cell-type specificity, limiting their therapeutic potential and increasing off-target effects.

Approach:

• Functionalized flexible mesh electronic probes with antibodies or peptides to target specific cell markers.
• Utilized histology to confirm selective association of targeted neurons, astrocytes, and microglia.
• Conducted in vivo chronic electrophysiology to validate selective cell-type targeting and recording capabilities.

Key Points:

• Mesh electronic probes elicit minimal immune response.
• Functionalized probes demonstrated selective association with targeted neurons, astrocytes, and microglia.
• Demonstrated potential for neuron subtype-specific targeting using probes targeting dopamine 2 receptor-expressing neurons.

Conclusions:

• Functionalized mesh probes offer a novel approach for cell-type-specific neural interfacing.
• This technology could lead to advanced electronic treatments with improved precision and reduced side effects.
• Paves the way for neuron subtype-specific interventions in neurological research and therapy.