1
|
Tang C, Zhang K, Yu S, Guan H, Cao M, Zhang K, Pan Y, Zhang S, Sun X, Peng H. All-Metal Flexible Fiber by Continuously Assembling Nanowires for High Electrical Conductivity. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2405000. [PMID: 39152934 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202405000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Fiber electronics booms as a new important field but is currently limited by the challenge of finding both highly flexible and conductive fiber electrodes. Here, all-metal fibers based on nanowires are discovered. Silver nanowires are continuously assembled into robust fibers by salt-induced aggregation and then firmly stabilized by plasmonic welding. The nanowire network structures provide them both high flexibility with moduli at the level of MPa and conductivities up to 106 S m-1. They also show excellent electrochemical properties such as low impedance and high electrochemically active surface area. Their stable chronic single-neuron recording is further demonstrated with good biocompatibility in vivo. These new fiber materials may provide more opportunities for the future development of fiber electronics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chengqiang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Kailin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Sihui Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Hang Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Mingjie Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Kun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - You Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Songlin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Xuemei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Huisheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang K, Tang C, Yu S, Guan H, Sun X, Cao M, Zhang S, Sun X, Peng H. High-performing fiber electrodes based on a gold-shelled silver nanowire framework for bioelectronics. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:5594-5599. [PMID: 38818741 DOI: 10.1039/d4tb00789a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Flexible fiber electrodes offer new opportunities for bioelectronics and are reliable in vivo applications, high flexibility, high electrical conductivity, and satisfactory biocompatibility are typically required. Herein, we present an all-metal flexible and biocompatible fiber electrode based on a metal nanowire hybrid strategy, i.e., silver nanowires were assembled on a freestanding framework, and further to render them inert, they were plated with a gold nanoshell. Our fiber electrodes exhibited a low modulus of ∼75 MPa and electrical conductivity up to ∼4.8 × 106 S m-1. They can resist chemical erosion with negligible leakage of biotoxic silver ions in the physiological environment, thus ensuring satisfactory biocompatibility. Finally, we demonstrated the hybrid fiber as a neural electrode that stimulated the sciatic nerve of a mouse, proving its potential for applications in bioelectronics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kailin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Chengqiang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Sihui Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Hang Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Xiao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Mingjie Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Songlin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Xuemei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| | - Huisheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Institute of Fiber Materials and Devices, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sharafkhani N, Long JM, Adams SD, Kouzani AZ. A self-stiffening compliant intracortical microprobe. Biomed Microdevices 2024; 26:17. [PMID: 38345721 PMCID: PMC10861748 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-024-00700-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Utilising a flexible intracortical microprobe to record/stimulate neurons minimises the incompatibility between the implanted microprobe and the brain, reducing tissue damage due to the brain micromotion. Applying bio-dissolvable coating materials temporarily makes a flexible microprobe stiff to tolerate the penetration force during insertion. However, the inability to adjust the dissolving time after the microprobe contact with the cerebrospinal fluid may lead to inaccuracy in the microprobe positioning. Furthermore, since the dissolving process is irreversible, any subsequent positioning error cannot be corrected by re-stiffening the microprobe. The purpose of this study is to propose an intracortical microprobe that incorporates two compressible structures to make the microprobe both adaptive to the brain during operation and stiff during insertion. Applying a compressive force by an inserter compresses the two compressible structures completely, resulting in increasing the equivalent elastic modulus. Thus, instant switching between stiff and soft modes can be accomplished as many times as necessary to ensure high-accuracy positioning while causing minimal tissue damage. The equivalent elastic modulus of the microprobe during operation is ≈ 23 kPa, which is ≈ 42% less than the existing counterpart, resulting in ≈ 46% less maximum strain generated on the surrounding tissue under brain longitudinal motion. The self-stiffening microprobe and surrounding neural tissue are simulated during insertion and operation to confirm the efficiency of the design. Two-photon polymerisation technology is utilised to 3D print the proposed microprobe, which is experimentally validated and inserted into a lamb's brain without buckling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naser Sharafkhani
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3216, Australia
| | - John M Long
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3216, Australia
| | - Scott D Adams
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3216, Australia
| | - Abbas Z Kouzani
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3216, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sadri B, Gao W. Fibrous wearable and implantable bioelectronics. APPLIED PHYSICS REVIEWS 2023; 10:031303. [PMID: 37576610 PMCID: PMC10364553 DOI: 10.1063/5.0152744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Fibrous wearable and implantable devices have emerged as a promising technology, offering a range of new solutions for minimally invasive monitoring of human health. Compared to traditional biomedical devices, fibers offer a possibility for a modular design compatible with large-scale manufacturing and a plethora of advantages including mechanical compliance, breathability, and biocompatibility. The new generation of fibrous biomedical devices can revolutionize easy-to-use and accessible health monitoring systems by serving as building blocks for most common wearables such as fabrics and clothes. Despite significant progress in the fabrication, materials, and application of fibrous biomedical devices, there is still a notable absence of a comprehensive and systematic review on the subject. This review paper provides an overview of recent advancements in the development of fibrous wearable and implantable electronics. We categorized these advancements into three main areas: manufacturing processes, platforms, and applications, outlining their respective merits and limitations. The paper concludes by discussing the outlook and challenges that lie ahead for fiber bioelectronics, providing a holistic view of its current stage of development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Behnam Sadri
- Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering, Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology; Pasadena, California 91125, USA
| | - Wei Gao
- Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering, Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology; Pasadena, California 91125, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhao Y, Jin KQ, Li JD, Sheng KK, Huang WH, Liu YL. Flexible and Stretchable Electrochemical Sensors for Biological Monitoring. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023:e2305917. [PMID: 37639636 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The rise of flexible and stretchable electronics has revolutionized biosensor techniques for probing biological systems. Particularly, flexible and stretchable electrochemical sensors (FSECSs) enable the in situ quantification of numerous biochemical molecules in different biological entities owing to their exceptional sensitivity, fast response, and easy miniaturization. Over the past decade, the fabrication and application of FSECSs have significantly progressed. This review highlights key developments in electrode fabrication and FSECSs functionalization. It delves into the electrochemical sensing of various biomarkers, including metabolites, electrolytes, signaling molecules, and neurotransmitters from biological systems, encompassing the outer epidermis, tissues/organs in vitro and in vivo, and living cells. Finally, considering electrode preparation and biological applications, current challenges and future opportunities for FSECSs are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhao
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Kai-Qi Jin
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Jing-Du Li
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Kai-Kai Sheng
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Wei-Hua Huang
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Yan-Ling Liu
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abstract
Advances in bioelectronic implants have been offering valuable chances to interface and modulate neural systems. Potential mismatches between bioelectronics and targeted neural tissues require devices to exhibit "tissue-like" properties for better implant-bio integration. In particular, mechanical mismatches pose a significant challenge. In the past years, efforts were made in both materials synthesis and device design to achieve bioelectronics mechanically and biochemically mimicking biological tissues. In this perspective, we mainly summarized recent progress of developing "tissue-like" bioelectronics and categorized them into different strategies. We also discussed how these "tissue-like" bioelectronics were utilized for modulating in vivo nervous systems and neural organoids. We concluded the perspective by proposing further directions including personalized bioelectronics, novel materials design and the involvement of artificial intelligence and robotic techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Changxu Sun
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Zhe Cheng
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Jj Abu-Halimah
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Bozhi Tian
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- The James Franck Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- The Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chen C, Feng J, Li J, Guo Y, Shi X, Peng H. Functional Fiber Materials to Smart Fiber Devices. Chem Rev 2023; 123:613-662. [PMID: 35977344 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The development of fiber materials has accompanied the evolution of human civilization for centuries. Recent advances in materials science and chemistry offered fibers new applications with various functions, including energy harvesting, energy storing, displaying, health monitoring and treating, and computing. The unique one-dimensional shape of fiber devices endows them advantages to work as human-interfaced electronics due to the small size, lightweight, flexibility, and feasibility for integration into large-scale textile systems. In this review, we first present a discussion of the basics of fiber materials and the design principles of fiber devices, followed by a comprehensive analysis on recently developed fiber devices. Finally, we provide the current challenges facing this field and give an outlook on future research directions. With novel fiber devices and new applications continuing to be discovered after two decades of research, we envision that new fiber devices could have an important impact on our life in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuanrui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, P. R. China
| | - Jianyou Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, P. R. China
| | - Jiaxin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, P. R. China
| | - Yue Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, P. R. China
| | - Huisheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, and Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Conductive fibers for biomedical applications. Bioact Mater 2022; 22:343-364. [PMID: 36311045 PMCID: PMC9588989 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Bioelectricity has been stated as a key factor in regulating cell activity and tissue function in electroactive tissues. Thus, various biomedical electronic constructs have been developed to interfere with cell behaviors to promote tissue regeneration, or to interface with cells or tissue/organ surfaces to acquire physiological status via electrical signals. Benefiting from the outstanding advantages of flexibility, structural diversity, customizable mechanical properties, and tunable distribution of conductive components, conductive fibers are able to avoid the damage-inducing mechanical mismatch between the construct and the biological environment, in return to ensure stable functioning of such constructs during physiological deformation. Herein, this review starts by presenting current fabrication technologies of conductive fibers including wet spinning, microfluidic spinning, electrospinning and 3D printing as well as surface modification on fibers and fiber assemblies. To provide an update on the biomedical applications of conductive fibers and fiber assemblies, we further elaborate conductive fibrous constructs utilized in tissue engineering and regeneration, implantable healthcare bioelectronics, and wearable healthcare bioelectronics. To conclude, current challenges and future perspectives of biomedical electronic constructs built by conductive fibers are discussed.
Collapse
|
9
|
Xiong J, Zhang B, Balilonda A, Yang S, Li K, Zhang Q, Li Y, Wang H, Hou C. Graphene-based implantable neural electrodes for insect flight control. J Mater Chem B 2022; 10:4632-4639. [PMID: 35648073 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb00906d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Implantable neural electrodes have been widely used to investigate the function of the brain and treat neurological disorders. Due to their advantages of size and preparation, fibrous neural electrodes have been widely applied, but conventional metal wire electrodes have many shortcomings that are impossible to overcome. Here, we present a modified graphene-based fiber electrode, which retains the excellent electrical properties of the graphene fiber (GF) electrode and enhances the charge storage capacity (CSC) from the initial 7.97 mC cm-2 to 504.04 mC cm-2. The modified electrodes were further investigated via in vivo experiments, and the results show that the modified graphene fibers controlled insect flight with a minimum voltage close to that of silver wire electrodes, and no irreversible chemical reaction occurred during the electrical stimulation process, which could achieve the stimulation effect while ensuring the safety of the tissues around the electrodes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Xiong
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China.
| | - Bin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China.
| | - Andrew Balilonda
- Research Centre for Smart Wearable Technology, Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
| | - Shengyuan Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China.
| | - Kerui Li
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China.
| | - Qinghong Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Glasses Manufacturing Technology, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Yaogang Li
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Glasses Manufacturing Technology, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Hongzhi Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China.
| | - Chengyi Hou
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Biomedical polymers: synthesis, properties, and applications. Sci China Chem 2022; 65:1010-1075. [PMID: 35505924 PMCID: PMC9050484 DOI: 10.1007/s11426-022-1243-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Biomedical polymers have been extensively developed for promising applications in a lot of biomedical fields, such as therapeutic medicine delivery, disease detection and diagnosis, biosensing, regenerative medicine, and disease treatment. In this review, we summarize the most recent advances in the synthesis and application of biomedical polymers, and discuss the comprehensive understanding of their property-function relationship for corresponding biomedical applications. In particular, a few burgeoning bioactive polymers, such as peptide/biomembrane/microorganism/cell-based biomedical polymers, are also introduced and highlighted as the emerging biomaterials for cancer precision therapy. Furthermore, the foreseeable challenges and outlook of the development of more efficient, healthier and safer biomedical polymers are discussed. We wish this systemic and comprehensive review on highlighting frontier progress of biomedical polymers could inspire and promote new breakthrough in fundamental research and clinical translation.
![]()
Collapse
|
11
|
Research Progress on the Flexibility of an Implantable Neural Microelectrode. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:mi13030386. [PMID: 35334680 PMCID: PMC8954487 DOI: 10.3390/mi13030386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Neural microelectrode is the important bridge of information exchange between the human body and machines. By recording and transmitting nerve signals with electrodes, people can control the external machines. At the same time, using electrodes to electrically stimulate nerve tissue, people with long-term brain diseases will be safely and reliably treated. Young’s modulus of the traditional rigid electrode probe is not matched well with that of biological tissue, and tissue immune rejection is easy to generate, resulting in the electrode not being able to achieve long-term safety and reliable working. In recent years, the choice of flexible materials and design of electrode structures can achieve modulus matching between electrode and biological tissue, and tissue damage is decreased. This review discusses nerve microelectrodes based on flexible electrode materials and substrate materials. Simultaneously, different structural designs of neural microelectrodes are reviewed. However, flexible electrode probes are difficult to implant into the brain. Only with the aid of certain auxiliary devices, can the implant be safe and reliable. The implantation method of the nerve microelectrode is also reviewed.
Collapse
|
12
|
Sharafkhani N, Kouzani AZ, Adams SD, Long JM, Lissorgues G, Rousseau L, Orwa JO. Neural tissue-microelectrode interaction: Brain micromotion, electrical impedance, and flexible microelectrode insertion. J Neurosci Methods 2022; 365:109388. [PMID: 34678387 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2021.109388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Insertion of a microelectrode into the brain to record/stimulate neurons damages neural tissue and blood vessels and initiates the brain's wound healing response. Due to the large difference between the stiffness of neural tissue and microelectrode, brain micromotion also leads to neural tissue damage and associated local immune response. Over time, following implantation, the brain's response to the tissue damage can result in microelectrode failure. Reducing the microelectrode's cross-sectional dimensions to single-digit microns or using soft materials with elastic modulus close to that of the neural tissue are effective methods to alleviate the neural tissue damage and enhance microelectrode longevity. However, the increase in electrical impedance of the microelectrode caused by reducing the microelectrode contact site's dimensions can decrease the signal-to-noise ratio. Most importantly, the reduced dimensions also lead to a reduction in the critical buckling force, which increases the microelectrode's propensity to buckling during insertion. After discussing brain micromotion, the main source of neural tissue damage, surface modification of the microelectrode contact site is reviewed as a key method for addressing the increase in electrical impedance issue. The review then focuses on recent approaches to aiding insertion of flexible microelectrodes into the brain, including bending stiffness modification, effective length reduction, and application of a magnetic field to pull the electrode. An understanding of the advantages and drawbacks of the developed strategies offers a guide for dealing with the buckling phenomenon during implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naser Sharafkhani
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia.
| | - Abbas Z Kouzani
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
| | - Scott D Adams
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
| | - John M Long
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
| | | | | | - Julius O Orwa
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Mezzasalma SA, Grassi L, Grassi M. Physical and chemical properties of carbon nanotubes in view of mechanistic neuroscience investigations. Some outlook from condensed matter, materials science and physical chemistry. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2021; 131:112480. [PMID: 34857266 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2021.112480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The open border between non-living and living matter, suggested by increasingly emerging fields of nanoscience interfaced to biological systems, requires a detailed knowledge of nanomaterials properties. An account of the wide spectrum of phenomena, belonging to physical chemistry of interfaces, materials science, solid state physics at the nanoscale and bioelectrochemistry, thus is acquainted for a comprehensive application of carbon nanotubes interphased with neuron cells. This review points out a number of conceptual tools to further address the ongoing advances in coupling neuronal networks with (carbon) nanotube meshworks, and to deepen the basic issues that govern a biological cell or tissue interacting with a nanomaterial. Emphasis is given here to the properties and roles of carbon nanotube systems at relevant spatiotemporal scales of individual molecules, junctions and molecular layers, as well as to the point of view of a condensed matter or materials scientist. Carbon nanotube interactions with blood-brain barrier, drug delivery, biocompatibility and functionalization issues are also regarded.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano A Mezzasalma
- Ruder Bošković Institute, Materials Physics Division, Bijeniška cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; Lund Institute for advanced Neutron and X-ray Science (LINXS), Lund University, IDEON Building, Delta 5, Scheelevägen 19, 223 70 Lund, Sweden.
| | - Lucia Grassi
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, Trieste University, via Valerio 6, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Mario Grassi
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, Trieste University, via Valerio 6, I-34127 Trieste, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Water-responsive polymers, which enable the design of objects whose mechanical properties or shape can be altered upon moderate swelling, are useful for a broad range of applications. However, the limited processing options of materials that exhibit useful switchable mechanical properties generally restricted their application to objects having a simple geometry. Here we show that this problem can be overcome by using a negative photoresist approach in which a linear hydrophilic polymer is converted into a highly transparent cross-linked polymer network. The photolithographic process allows the facile production of objects of complex shape and permits programming of the cross-link density, the extent of aqueous swelling, and thereby the stiffness and refractive index under physiological conditions over a wide range and with high spatial resolution. Our findings validate a straightforward route to fabricate mechanically adaptive devices for a variety of (biomedical) uses, notably optogenetic implants whose overall shape, mechanical contrast, and optical channels can all be defined by photolithography.
Collapse
|
15
|
Hejazi M, Tong W, Ibbotson MR, Prawer S, Garrett DJ. Advances in Carbon-Based Microfiber Electrodes for Neural Interfacing. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:658703. [PMID: 33912007 PMCID: PMC8072048 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.658703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural interfacing devices using penetrating microelectrode arrays have emerged as an important tool in both neuroscience research and medical applications. These implantable microelectrode arrays enable communication between man-made devices and the nervous system by detecting and/or evoking neuronal activities. Recent years have seen rapid development of electrodes fabricated using flexible, ultrathin carbon-based microfibers. Compared to electrodes fabricated using rigid materials and larger cross-sections, these microfiber electrodes have been shown to reduce foreign body responses after implantation, with improved signal-to-noise ratio for neural recording and enhanced resolution for neural stimulation. Here, we review recent progress of carbon-based microfiber electrodes in terms of material composition and fabrication technology. The remaining challenges and future directions for development of these arrays will also be discussed. Overall, these microfiber electrodes are expected to improve the longevity and reliability of neural interfacing devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Hejazi
- School of Physics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Wei Tong
- School of Physics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- National Vision Research Institute, The Australian College of Optometry, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael R. Ibbotson
- National Vision Research Institute, The Australian College of Optometry, Carlton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Steven Prawer
- School of Physics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - David J. Garrett
- School of Physics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chen G, Wang G, Tan X, Hou K, Meng Q, Zhao P, Wang S, Zhang J, Zhou Z, Chen T, Cheng Y, Hsiao BS, Reichmanis E, Zhu M. Integrated dynamic wet spinning of core-sheath hydrogel fibers for optical-to-brain/tissue communications. Natl Sci Rev 2020; 8:nwaa209. [PMID: 34691723 PMCID: PMC8433079 DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwaa209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Hydrogel optical light-guides have received substantial interest for applications such as deep-tissue biosensors, optogenetic stimulation and photomedicine due to their biocompatibility, (micro)structure control and tissue-like Young's modulus. However, despite recent developments, large-scale fabrication with a continuous synthetic methodology, which could produce core-sheath hydrogel fibers with the desired optical and mechanical properties suitable for deep-tissue applications, has yet to be achieved. In this study, we report a versatile concept of integrated light-triggered dynamic wet spinning capable of continuously producing core-sheath hydrogel optical fibers with tunable fiber diameters, and mechanical and optical propagation properties. Furthermore, this concept also exhibited versatility for various kinds of core-sheath functional fibers. The wet spinning synthetic procedure and fabrication process were optimized with the rational design of the core/sheath material interface compatibility [core = poly(ethylene glycol diacrylate-co-acrylamide); sheath = Ca-alginate], optical transparency, refractive index and spinning solution viscosity. The resulting hydrogel optical fibers exhibited desirable low optical attenuation (0.18 ± 0.01 dB cm−1 with 650 nm laser light), excellent biocompatibility and tissue-like Young's modulus (<2.60 MPa). The optical waveguide hydrogel fibers were successfully employed for deep-tissue cancer therapy and brain optogenetic stimulation, confirming that they could serve as an efficient versatile tool for diverse deep-tissue therapy and brain optogenetic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guoyin Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Gang Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xinrong Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute of Brain Science, Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Kai Hou
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Qingshuo Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute of Brain Science, Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute of Brain Science, Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shun Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Jiayi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute of Brain Science, Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Tao Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yanhua Cheng
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Benjamin S Hsiao
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Elsa Reichmanis
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Meifang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| |
Collapse
|