Microfabricated nerve-electrode interfaces in neural prosthetics and neural engineering

Abstract

Neural interfaces and implants are finding more clinical applications and there are rapid technological advances for more efficient and safe design, fabrication and materials to establish high-fidelity neural interfaces. In this review paper, we highlight new developments of the microfabricated electrodes and substrates with regard to the design, materials, fabrication and their clinical applications. There is a noticeable trend towards integration of microfluidic modules on a single neural platform. In addition to the microelectrodes for neural recording and stimulation, microfluidic channels are integrated into a nerve-electrode interface to explore the rich neurochemistry present at the neural interface and exploit it for enhanced electrochemical stimulation and recording of the central and peripheral nervous system. © 2013 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.