An Implantable and High-Density, Multiplexed Micro-ECoG System

DescriptionThe mechanisms underlying brain functionssuch as perceptionmotor controllearning and memoryin health and disease result from the coordinated responses of neurons distributed across multiple brain regionsHoweverconventional electrode technologies have not scaled to capture this networked activityResearchers are forced to compromise between low resolution over large areas of the brain or fine resolution over very small areasWith more thanmillion neurons per square centimeter of brain surfacehigh resolution interfaces which conform and cover multiple cortical regions are needed to further our understanding to offer effective intervention in diseaseThis SBIR proposal aims to develop a highly conformableultra softand high density cortical ACTIECOG electrode array withcontacts accessible from onlywires which can be scaled to a large surface areaup toxinchesThe technology is arrayable and scalable toor more channels in Phaseusing a fully implantable deviceThis high resolution array will embed an active interface electronic micro chip which is sealed in a water tight miniaturized pin grid package within the flexible arrayThe electrode array technology contacting the brain is ultra softconformalmulti layeredand resilient to repetitive mechanical strain in contrast to thin film materials which are rigid and not conformable in two dimensions simultaneouslyThis powerful tool will advance the research capabilities of closed loop sensory prosthesesseizure monitoring and brain machine interfacesThis SBIR Phaseaddresses significant challenges increating a multi layeredhigh surface areahigh densitysoft and conformal electrode which is flexible inD over the surface of the braincreating a research grade electronics package to improve scalabilitydesigning alead wires interface using a conventional connector to access thecontact arrayTo achieve these goals we propose three specific aimsAIMwill focus on fabricating multi layered and high density passive electrodes using our conformal electrode processperforming mechanical stress testingand in vivo validation overmonthsAimwill develop achannelconformal and high density ACTIECOG array for multiplexed stimulation and recordingAimwill perform in vivo validation of the multi layered passive arrays and thechannel ACTIECOG platform for recording and stimulation in the auditory cortexTEAMOur Team includes DrBryan McLaughlinMicro Leadsand DrJonathan ViventiDuke Universitywho both specialize in high resolution electrode manufacturing and testingMARKETThe market for the proposed device is targeted primarily at academic institutionsresearch institutionspharmaceutical companiesand biomedical device companies seeking to perform brain researchBased upon interview and the global number of laboratorieswe estimate the total research market size is approximately $ M year for this type of deviceOur envisioned product is a multiplexed lead for large animal modelswhich in Phasewill be connected with a wireless implantable device to access hundreds of neural contacts