A Microneedle Array System for Transcutaneous Nerve Mapping

DESCRIPTION provided by applicant The proposed study combines novel electronics and microfabrication techniques to create a non invasive research platform for targeted stimulation and characterization of human peripheral nerves This Phase II proposal involves two significant developments for high resolution peripheral nerve interfacing Aim will develop high resolution and low noise skin surface electrode arrays Each electrode within the array will consist of cost effective micropatterned needles which significantly decrease electrode impedance by pain lessly piercing the topmost layer of skin thereby providing high spatial resolution without sacrificing signal to noise ratio Aim will develop miniaturized stimulation and recording electronics to recover signals tra ditionally obscured by stimulation artifacts The recovered data combined with the ability to simultaneously interact with dozens of skin surface electrodes will allow non invasive mapping characterization and con trol of peripheral nerves In addition to reducing the complexity pain and training required to monitor and manipulate peripheral nerves this platform will allow for continued innovation in disease diagnostics sur face electromyography neural prosthetics intraoperative monitoring and therapeutic stimulation PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE This research project leverages novel electronic and microfabrication technologies to produce a non invasive automated toolset for interfacing nerves Ultimately this development will facilitate medical and scientific discoveries that will enable the diagnosis and therapeutic treatment of neuromuscular diseases