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Stretchable, Self-Rolled, Microfluidic Electronics Enable Conformable Neural Interfaces of Brain and Vagus
Ruihua Dong1,2, Lulu Wang3, Zebin Li1
1Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Smart Healthcare Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, No. 1088 Xueyuan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P. R. China.
Researchers developed self-rolled, stretchable neural interfaces using microfluidic printing. These flexible electronics offer improved compatibility for peripheral neuromodulation and real-time monitoring of neurological conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Implantable neuroelectronic interfaces are crucial for brain-computer interfacing and neurological therapies.
- Mechanical and geometric mismatches hinder personalized neural interfaces for peripheral neuromodulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel self-rolled, stretchable neural interface for neurological diagnosis and modulation.
- To address the limitations of current neural interfaces in terms of compatibility and long-term performance.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing microfluidic printing technology to create stretchable liquid metal-polymer conductors with 30 μm resolution.
- Developing self-rolled microfluidic electrodes with a diameter of 160 μm for nerve interfacing.
- Conducting in vivo studies on vagus and sciatic nerves for signal recording and functional modulation.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated high conformability and stretchability (>600% strain) with good biocompatibility (>8 weeks).
- Achieved real-time monitoring of epileptiform activities with excellent brain tissue conformability.
- Successfully recorded action potentials and modulated heart rate via vagus nerve stimulation, showcasing potential for peripheral neuromodulation.
Conclusions:
- The developed self-rolled microfluidic electrodes offer a robust and user-friendly solution for compatible neuroelectronics.
- These interfaces show significant promise for advanced peripheral neuromodulation and neurological disorder management.
