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Film‐Based Implants for Supporting Neuron–Electrode Integrated Interfaces for The Brain
Author(s) -
TangSchomer Min D.,
Hu Xiao,
HronikTupaj Marie,
Tien Lee W.,
Whalen Michael J.,
Omenetto Fiorenzo G.,
Kaplan David L.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
advanced functional materials
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 6.069
H-Index - 322
eISSN - 1616-3028
pISSN - 1616-301X
DOI - 10.1002/adfm.201303196
Subject(s) - materials science , electrode , biomedical engineering , nanotechnology , brain–computer interface , neural prosthesis , brain implant , neuroscience , electroencephalography , biology , medicine , chemistry
Neural engineering provides promise for cell therapy by integrating the host brain with brain–machine‐interface technologies in order to externally modulate functions. Long‐term interfaces with the host brain remain a critical challenge due to insufficient graft cell survivability and loss of brain electrode sensitivity over time. Here, integrated neuron–electrode interfaces are developed on thin flexible and transparent silk films as brain implants. Mechanical properties and surface topography of silk films are optimized to promote cell survival and alignment of primary rat cortical cells. Compartmentalized neural cultures and co‐patterned electrode arrays are incorporated on the silk films with built‐in wire connections. Electrical stimulation via electrodes embedded in the films activated surrounding neurons to produce evoked calcium responses. In mice brains, silk film implants show conformal contact capable of modulating host brain cells with minimal inflammatory response and stable indwelling for weeks. The approach of combining cell therapy and brain electrodes could provide sustained functional interfaces with ex vivo control with spatial precision.