Monolithic three-dimensional neural probes from deterministic rolling of soft electronics

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Bioengineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Neural circuits supporting cognition and behavior are 3D.
• Existing neural probes are typically 2D due to fabrication limitations.
• This limits comprehensive neural activity recording.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop scalable, flexible monolithic 3D neural probes.
• To overcome the limitations of 2D neural recording interfaces.
• To enable high-resolution 3D spatiotemporal mapping of neural activity.

Main Methods:

• A novel 'rolling-of-soft-electronics' approach was employed.
• Planar flexible electrode devices were deterministically rolled into 3D structures.
• Device design variations (shank pitch, spacer thickness) allowed versatile 3D probe configurations with hundreds of electrodes.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated in vivo single-unit spike recording in rodent and non-human primate models.
• Achieved microscopy-like 3D spatiotemporal mapping of neural spike activity in the rodent visual cortex.
• Showcased five-week recording stability and effective 3D decoding of visual orientation.

Conclusions:

• The rolling-of-soft-electronics method offers a scalable and flexible approach for fabricating monolithic 3D neural probes.
• These 3D probes significantly enhance neural recording capabilities, enabling detailed 3D spatiotemporal mapping.
• The technology holds promise for advancing neuroscience research and understanding brain function.