1
|
Rodríguez‐Meana B, del Valle J, Viana D, Walston ST, Ria N, Masvidal‐Codina E, Garrido JA, Navarro X. Engineered Graphene Material Improves the Performance of Intraneural Peripheral Nerve Electrodes. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308689. [PMID: 38863325 PMCID: PMC11304253 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Limb neuroprostheses aim to restore motor and sensory functions in amputated or severely nerve-injured patients. These devices use neural interfaces to record and stimulate nerve action potentials, creating a bidirectional connection with the nervous system. Most neural interfaces are based on standard metal microelectrodes. In this work, a new generation of neural interfaces which replaces metals with engineered graphene, called EGNITE, is tested. In vitro and in vivo experiments are conducted to assess EGNITE biocompatibility. In vitro tests show that EGNITE does not impact cell viability. In vivo, no significant functional decrease or harmful effects are observed. Furthermore, the foreign body reaction to the intraneural implant is similar compared to other materials previously used in neural interfaces. Regarding functionality, EGNITE devices are able to stimulate nerve fascicles, during two months of implant, producing selective muscle activation with about three times less current compared to larger microelectrodes of standard materials. CNAP elicited by electrical stimuli and ENG evoked by mechanical stimuli are recorded with high resolution but are more affected by decreased functionality over time. This work constitutes further proof that graphene-derived materials, and specifically EGNITE, is a promising conductive material of neural electrodes for advanced neuroprostheses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Rodríguez‐Meana
- Institute of NeurosciencesDepartment of Cell BiologyPhysiology and ImmunologyUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBellaterra08193Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED)Instituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadrid28031Spain
| | - Jaume del Valle
- Institute of NeurosciencesDepartment of Cell BiologyPhysiology and ImmunologyUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBellaterra08193Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED)Instituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadrid28031Spain
- Department de Bioquímica i FisiologiaUniversitat de BarcelonaBarcelona08028Spain
| | - Damià Viana
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2)CSIC and BISTCampus UABBellaterra08193Spain
| | - Steven T. Walston
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2)CSIC and BISTCampus UABBellaterra08193Spain
| | - Nicola Ria
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2)CSIC and BISTCampus UABBellaterra08193Spain
| | - Eduard Masvidal‐Codina
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2)CSIC and BISTCampus UABBellaterra08193Spain
| | - Jose A. Garrido
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2)CSIC and BISTCampus UABBellaterra08193Spain
- ICREABarcelona08010Spain
| | - Xavier Navarro
- Institute of NeurosciencesDepartment of Cell BiologyPhysiology and ImmunologyUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBellaterra08193Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED)Instituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadrid28031Spain
- Institut Guttmann of NeurorehabilitationBadalona08916Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Micera S, Shokur S. Our research path toward the restoration of natural sensations in hand prostheses. Artif Organs 2024. [PMID: 38994666 DOI: 10.1111/aor.14823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
The human hand, with its intricate sensory capabilities, plays a pivotal role in our daily interactions with the world. This remarkable organ possesses a wide range of natural sensors that enrich our experiences, enabling us to perceive touch, position, and temperature. These natural sensors work in concert to provide us with a rich sensory experience, enabling us to distinguish between various textures, gauge the force of our grip, determine the position of our fingers without needing to see them, perceive the temperature of objects we come into contact with or detect if a cloth is wet or dry. This complex sensory system is fundamental to our ability to manipulate objects, explore our surroundings, and interact with the world and people around us. In this article, we summarize the research performed in our laboratories over the years and our findings to restore both touch, position, and temperature modalities. The combination of intraneural stimulation, sensory substitution, and wearable technology opens new possibilities for enhancing sensory feedback in prosthetic hands, promising improved functionality and a closer approximation to natural sensory experiences for individuals with limb differences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvestro Micera
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Neuro-X Institute, School of Engineering, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- The BioRobotics Institute, Interdisciplinary Health Center, and Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Solaiman Shokur
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Neuro-X Institute, School of Engineering, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- The BioRobotics Institute, Interdisciplinary Health Center, and Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kundu A, Patrick E, Currlin S, Madler R, Delgado F, Fahmy A, Verplancke R, Ballini M, Braeken D, de Beeck MO, Maghari N, Otto KJ, Bashirullah R. Using Compound Neural Action Potentials for Functional Validation of a High-Density Intraneural Interface: A Preliminary Study. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:280. [PMID: 38399008 PMCID: PMC10891740 DOI: 10.3390/mi15020280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Compound nerve action potentials (CNAPs) were used as a metric to assess the stimulation performance of a novel high-density, transverse, intrafascicular electrode in rat models. We show characteristic CNAPs recorded from distally implanted cuff electrodes. Evaluation of the CNAPs as a function of stimulus current and calculation of recruitment plots were used to obtain a qualitative approximation of the neural interface's placement and orientation inside the nerve. This method avoids elaborate surgeries required for the implantation of EMG electrodes and thus minimizes surgical complications and may accelerate the healing process of the implanted subject.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aritra Kundu
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, SW7 2AZ London, UK
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (E.P.); (N.M.)
| | - Erin Patrick
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (E.P.); (N.M.)
| | - Seth Currlin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA (K.J.O.)
| | - Ryan Madler
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (E.P.); (N.M.)
| | - Francisco Delgado
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA (K.J.O.)
| | - Ahmed Fahmy
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (E.P.); (N.M.)
| | - Rik Verplancke
- Centre for Microsystems Technology (CMST), IMEC and Ghent University, 9052 Zwijnaarde, Belgium (M.O.d.B.)
| | | | | | - Maaike Op de Beeck
- Centre for Microsystems Technology (CMST), IMEC and Ghent University, 9052 Zwijnaarde, Belgium (M.O.d.B.)
- IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Nima Maghari
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (E.P.); (N.M.)
| | - Kevin J. Otto
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA (K.J.O.)
| | - Rizwan Bashirullah
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (E.P.); (N.M.)
- Galvani Bioelectronics, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Taghlabi KM, Cruz-Garza JG, Hassan T, Potnis O, Bhenderu LS, Guerrero JR, Whitehead RE, Wu Y, Luan L, Xie C, Robinson JT, Faraji AH. Clinical outcomes of peripheral nerve interfaces for rehabilitation in paralysis and amputation: a literature review. J Neural Eng 2024; 21:011001. [PMID: 38237175 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ad200f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve interfaces (PNIs) are electrical systems designed to integrate with peripheral nerves in patients, such as following central nervous system (CNS) injuries to augment or replace CNS control and restore function. We review the literature for clinical trials and studies containing clinical outcome measures to explore the utility of human applications of PNIs. We discuss the various types of electrodes currently used for PNI systems and their functionalities and limitations. We discuss important design characteristics of PNI systems, including biocompatibility, resolution and specificity, efficacy, and longevity, to highlight their importance in the current and future development of PNIs. The clinical outcomes of PNI systems are also discussed. Finally, we review relevant PNI clinical trials that were conducted, up to the present date, to restore the sensory and motor function of upper or lower limbs in amputees, spinal cord injury patients, or intact individuals and describe their significant findings. This review highlights the current progress in the field of PNIs and serves as a foundation for future development and application of PNI systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khaled M Taghlabi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Center for Neural Systems Restoration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Clinical Innovations Laboratory, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Jesus G Cruz-Garza
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Center for Neural Systems Restoration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Clinical Innovations Laboratory, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Taimur Hassan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Center for Neural Systems Restoration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Clinical Innovations Laboratory, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, United States of America
| | - Ojas Potnis
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Center for Neural Systems Restoration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Clinical Innovations Laboratory, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- School of Engineering Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Lokeshwar S Bhenderu
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Center for Neural Systems Restoration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Clinical Innovations Laboratory, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, United States of America
| | - Jaime R Guerrero
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Center for Neural Systems Restoration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Clinical Innovations Laboratory, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Rachael E Whitehead
- Department of Academic Affairs, Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
| | - Yu Wu
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States of America
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States of America
| | - Lan Luan
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States of America
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States of America
| | - Chong Xie
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States of America
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States of America
| | - Jacob T Robinson
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States of America
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States of America
| | - Amir H Faraji
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Center for Neural Systems Restoration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Clinical Innovations Laboratory, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, United States of America
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States of America
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cho Y, Jeong HH, Shin H, Pak CJ, Cho J, Kim Y, Kim D, Kim T, Kim H, Kim S, Kwon S, Hong JP, Suh HP, Lee S. Hybrid Bionic Nerve Interface for Application in Bionic Limbs. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2303728. [PMID: 37840396 PMCID: PMC10724394 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Intuitive and perceptual neuroprosthetic systems require a high degree of neural control and a variety of sensory feedback, but reliable neural interfaces for long-term use that maintain their functionality are limited. Here, a novel hybrid bionic interface is presented, fabricated by integrating a biological interface (regenerative peripheral nerve interface (RPNI)) and a peripheral neural interface to enhance the neural interface performance between a nerve and bionic limbs. This interface utilizes a shape memory polymer buckle that can be easily implanted on a severed nerve and make contact with both the nerve and the muscle graft after RPNI formation. It is demonstrated that this interface can simultaneously record different signal information via the RPNI and the nerve, as well as stimulate them separately, inducing different responses. Furthermore, it is shown that this interface can record naturally evoked signals from a walking rabbit and use them to control a robotic leg. The long-term functionality and biocompatibility of this interface in rabbits are evaluated for up to 29 weeks, confirming its promising potential for enhancing prosthetic control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youngjun Cho
- Department of Robotics and Mechatronics EngineeringDaegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST)Daegu42899South Korea
| | - Hyung Hwa Jeong
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryAsan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine05505SeoulSouth Korea
| | - Heejae Shin
- Department of Robotics and Mechatronics EngineeringDaegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST)Daegu42899South Korea
| | - Changsik John Pak
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryAsan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine05505SeoulSouth Korea
| | - Jeongmok Cho
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryAsan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine05505SeoulSouth Korea
| | - Yongwoo Kim
- Department of Robotics and Mechatronics EngineeringDaegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST)Daegu42899South Korea
| | - Donggeon Kim
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryAsan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine05505SeoulSouth Korea
| | - Taehyeon Kim
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryAsan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine05505SeoulSouth Korea
| | - Hoijun Kim
- Graduate School of Smart ConvergenceKwangwoon UniversitySeoul01897South Korea
| | - Sohee Kim
- Department of Robotics and Mechatronics EngineeringDaegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST)Daegu42899South Korea
| | - Soonchul Kwon
- Graduate School of Smart ConvergenceKwangwoon UniversitySeoul01897South Korea
| | - Joon Pio Hong
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryAsan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine05505SeoulSouth Korea
| | - Hyunsuk Peter Suh
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryAsan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine05505SeoulSouth Korea
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- Department of Robotics and Mechatronics EngineeringDaegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST)Daegu42899South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Xie Y, Qin P, Guo T, Al Abed A, Lovell NH, Tsai D. Modulating individual axons and axonal populations in the peripheral nerve using transverse intrafascicular multichannel electrodes. J Neural Eng 2023; 20:046032. [PMID: 37536318 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aced20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective.A transverse intrafascicular multichannel electrode (TIME) may offer advantages over more conventional cuff electrodes including higher spatial selectivity and reduced stimulation charge requirements. However, the performance of TIME, especially in the context of non-conventional stimulation waveforms, remains relatively unexplored. As part of our overarching goal of investigating stimulation efficacy of TIME, we developed a computational toolkit that automates the creation and usage ofin siliconerve models with TIME setup, which solves nerve responses using cable equations and computes extracellular potentials using finite element method.Approach.We began by implementing a flexible and scalable Python/MATLAB-based toolkit for automatically creating models of nerve stimulation in the hybrid NEURON/COMSOL ecosystems. We then developed a sciatic nerve model containing 14 fascicles with 1,170 myelinated (A-type, 30%) and unmyelinated (C-type, 70%) fibers to study fiber responses over a variety of TIME arrangements (monopolar and hexapolar) and stimulation waveforms (kilohertz stimulation and cathodic ramp modulation).Main results.Our toolkit obviates the conventional need to re-create the same nerve in two disparate modeling environments and automates bi-directional transfer of results. Our population-based simulations suggested that kilohertz stimuli provide selective activation of targeted C fibers near the stimulating electrodes but also tended to activate non-targeted A fibers further away. However, C fiber selectivity can be enhanced by hexapolar TIME arrangements that confined the spatial extent of electrical stimuli. Improved upon prior findings, we devised a high-frequency waveform that incorporates cathodic DC ramp to completely remove undesirable onset responses.Conclusion.Our toolkit allows agile, iterative design cycles involving the nerve and TIME, while minimizing the potential operator errors during complex simulation. The nerve model created by our toolkit allowed us to study and optimize the design of next-generation intrafascicular implants for improved spatial and fiber-type selectivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuyang Xie
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Peijun Qin
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Tianruo Guo
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Amr Al Abed
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Nigel H Lovell
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
- Tyree Institute of Health Engineering (IHealthE), UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - David Tsai
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
- School of Electrical Engineering & Telecommunications, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Valle G. Peripheral neurostimulation for encoding artificial somatosensations. Eur J Neurosci 2022; 56:5888-5901. [PMID: 36097134 PMCID: PMC9826263 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The direct neural stimulation of peripheral or central nervous systems has been shown as an effective tool to treat neurological conditions. The electrical activation of the nervous sensory pathway can be adopted to restore the artificial sense of touch and proprioception in people suffering from sensory-motor disorders. The modulation of the neural stimulation parameters has a direct effect on the electrically induced sensations, both when targeting the somatosensory cortex and the peripheral somatic nerves. The properties of the artificial sensations perceived, as their location, quality and intensity are strongly dependent on the direct modulation of pulse width, amplitude and frequency of the neural stimulation. Different sensory encoding schemes have been tested in patients showing distinct effects and outcomes according to their impact on the neural activation. Here, I reported the most adopted neural stimulation strategies to artificially encode somatosensation into the peripheral nervous system. The real-time implementation of these strategies in bionic devices is crucial to exploit the artificial sensory feedback in prosthetics. Thus, neural stimulation becomes a tool to directly communicate with the human nervous system. Given the importance of adding artificial sensory information to neuroprosthetic devices to improve their control and functionality, the choice of an optimal neural stimulation paradigm could increase the impact of prosthetic devices on the quality of life of people with sensorimotor disabilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Valle
- Laboratory for Neuroengineering, Department of Health Sciences and TechnologyInstitute for Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH ZürichZürichSwitzerland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Valle G, Aiello G, Ciotti F, Cvancara P, Martinovic T, Kravic T, Navarro X, Stieglitz T, Bumbasirevic M, Raspopovic S. Multifaceted understanding of human nerve implants to design optimized electrodes for bioelectronics. Biomaterials 2022; 291:121874. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
9
|
Silveira C, Khushaba RN, Brunton E, Nazarpour K. Spatio-temporal feature extraction in sensory electroneurographic signals. PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS. SERIES A, MATHEMATICAL, PHYSICAL, AND ENGINEERING SCIENCES 2022; 380:20210268. [PMID: 35658682 PMCID: PMC9289791 DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2021.0268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The recording and analysis of peripheral neural signal can provide insight for various prosthetic and bioelectronics medicine applications. However, there are few studies that investigate how informative features can be extracted from population activity electroneurographic (ENG) signals. In this study, five feature extraction frameworks were implemented on sensory ENG datasets and their classification performance was compared. The datasets were collected in acute rat experiments where multi-channel nerve cuffs recorded from the sciatic nerve in response to proprioceptive stimulation of the hindlimb. A novel feature extraction framework, which incorporates spatio-temporal focus and dynamic time warping, achieved classification accuracies above 90% while keeping a low computational cost. This framework outperformed the remaining frameworks tested in this study and has improved the discrimination accuracy of the sensory signals. Thus, this study has extended the tools available to extract features from sensory population activity ENG signals. This article is part of the theme issue 'Advanced neurotechnologies: translating innovation for health and well-being'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C. Silveira
- School of Engineering, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
| | - R. N. Khushaba
- Australian Center for Field Robotics, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - E. Brunton
- National Vision Research Institute, Australian College of Optometry, Carlton, Victoria 3053, Australia
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - K. Nazarpour
- Edinburgh Neuroprosthetics Laboratory, School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Akouissi O, Lacour SP, Micera S, DeSimone A. A finite element model of the mechanical interactions between peripheral nerves and intrafascicular implants. J Neural Eng 2022; 19. [PMID: 35861557 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac7d0e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Objective.Intrafascicular peripheral nerve implants are key components in the development of bidirectional neuroprostheses such as touch-enabled bionic limbs for amputees. However, the durability of such interfaces is hindered by the immune response following the implantation. Among the causes linked to such reaction, the mechanical mismatch between host nerve and implant is thought to play a decisive role, especially in chronic settings.Approach.Here we focus on modeling mechanical stresses induced on the peripheral nerve by the implant's micromotion using finite element analysis. Through multiple parametric sweeps, we analyze the role of the implant's material, geometry (aspect-ratio and shape), and surface coating, deriving a set of parameters for the design of better-integrated implants.Main results.Our results indicate that peripheral nerve implants should be designed and manufactured with smooth edges, using materials at most three orders of magnitude stiffer than the nerve, and with innovative geometries to redistribute micromotion-associated loads to less delicate parts of the nerve such as the epineurium.Significance.Overall, our model is a useful tool for the peripheral nerve implant designer that is mindful of the importance of implant mechanics for long term applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Outman Akouissi
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, 1202, Switzerland.,Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Translational Neural Engineering Laboratory, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, 1202, Switzerland
| | - Stéphanie P Lacour
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, 1202, Switzerland
| | - Silvestro Micera
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Translational Neural Engineering Laboratory, Neuro-X Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Geneva, 1202, Switzerland.,The Biorobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics & AI, Health Science Interdisciplinary Center, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonio DeSimone
- The Biorobotics Institute and Department of Excellence in Robotics & AI, Health Science Interdisciplinary Center, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy.,SISSA-International School for Advanced Studies, 34136 Trieste, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Eickenscheidt M, Herrmann T, Weisshap M, Mittnacht A, Rudmann L, Zeck G, Stieglitz T. An optoelectronic neural interface approach for precise superposition of optical and electrical stimulation in flexible array structures. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 205:114090. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
12
|
Borkowska VR, McConnell A, Vijayakumar S, Stokes A, Roche AD. A Haptic Sleeve as a Method of Mechanotactile Feedback Restoration for Myoelectric Hand Prosthesis Users. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2022; 3:806479. [PMID: 36188923 PMCID: PMC9397846 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2022.806479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Current myoelectric upper limb prostheses do not restore sensory feedback, impairing fine motor control. Mechanotactile feedback restoration with a haptic sleeve may rectify this problem. This randomised crossover within-participant controlled study aimed to assess a prototype haptic sleeve's effect on routine grasping tasks performed by eight able-bodied participants. Each participant completed 15 repetitions of the three tasks: Task 1—normal grasp, Task 2—strong grasp and Task 3—weak grasp, using visual, haptic, or combined feedback All data were collected in April 2021 in the Scottish Microelectronics Centre, Edinburgh, UK. Combined feedback correlated with significantly higher grasp success rates compared to the vision alone in Task 1 (p < 0.0001), Task 2 (p = 0.0057), and Task 3 (p = 0.0170). Similarly, haptic feedback was associated with significantly higher grasp success rates compared to vision in Task 1 (p < 0.0001) and Task 2 (p = 0.0015). Combined feedback correlated with significantly lower energy expenditure compared to visual feedback in Task 1 (p < 0.0001) and Task 3 (p = 0.0003). Likewise, haptic feedback was associated with significantly lower energy expenditure compared to the visual feedback in Task 1 (p < 0.0001), Task 2 (p < 0.0001), and Task 3 (p < 0.0001). These results suggest that mechanotactile feedback provided by the haptic sleeve effectively augments grasping and reduces its energy expenditure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Violet R. Borkowska
- Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair McConnell
- Scottish Microelectronics Centre, Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, School of Engineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sethu Vijayakumar
- School of Informatics, Bayes Centre, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Adam Stokes
- Scottish Microelectronics Centre, Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, School of Engineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Aidan D. Roche
- College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Department of Plastic Surgery, National Healthcare System Lothian, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Aidan D. Roche
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Marmerstein JT, McCallum GA, Durand DM. Decoding Vagus-Nerve Activity with Carbon Nanotube Sensors in Freely Moving Rodents. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:bios12020114. [PMID: 35200374 PMCID: PMC8870245 DOI: 10.3390/bios12020114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The vagus nerve is the largest autonomic nerve and a major target of stimulation therapies for a wide variety of chronic diseases. However, chronic recording from the vagus nerve has been limited, leading to significant gaps in our understanding of vagus nerve function and therapeutic mechanisms. In this study, we use a carbon nanotube yarn (CNTY) biosensor to chronically record from the vagus nerves of freely moving rats for over 40 continuous hours. Vagal activity was analyzed using a variety of techniques, such as spike sorting, spike-firing rates, and interspike intervals. Many spike-cluster-firing rates were found to correlate with food intake, and the neural-firing rates were used to classify eating and other behaviors. To our knowledge, this is the first chronic recording and decoding of activity in the vagus nerve of freely moving animals enabled by the axon-like properties of the CNTY biosensor in both size and flexibility and provides an important step forward in our ability to understand spontaneous vagus-nerve function.
Collapse
|
14
|
Rowan CC, Graudejus O, Otchy TM. A Microclip Peripheral Nerve Interface (μcPNI) for Bioelectronic Interfacing with Small Nerves. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2102945. [PMID: 34837353 PMCID: PMC8787429 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202102945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral nerves carry sensory (afferent) and motor (efferent) signals between the central nervous system and other parts of the body. The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is therefore rich in targets for therapeutic neuromodulation, bioelectronic medicine, and neuroprosthetics. Peripheral nerve interfaces (PNIs) generally suffer from a tradeoff between selectivity and invasiveness. This work describes the fabrication, evaluation, and chronic implantation in zebra finches of a novel PNI that breaks this tradeoff by interfacing with small nerves. This PNI integrates a soft, stretchable microelectrode array with a 2-photon 3D printed microclip (μcPNI). The advantages of this μcPNI compared to other designs are: a) increased spatial resolution due to bi-layer wiring of the electrode leads, b) reduced mismatch in biomechanical properties with the nerve, c) reduced disturbance to the host tissue due to the small size, d) elimination of sutures or adhesives, e) high circumferential contact with small nerves, f) functionality under considerable strain, and g) graded neuromodulation in a low-threshold stimulation regime. Results demonstrate that the μcPNIs are electromechanically robust, and are capable of reliably recording and stimulating neural activity in vivo in small nerves. The μcPNI may also inform the development of new optical, thermal, ultrasonic, or chemical PNIs as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Oliver Graudejus
- BMSEED LLCPhoenixAZ85034USA
- School of Molecular SciencesArizona State UniversityTempeAZ85281USA
| | - Timothy M. Otchy
- Department of BiologyBoston UniversityBostonMA02215USA
- Neurophotonics CenterBoston UniversityBostonMA02215USA
- Center for Systems NeuroscienceBoston UniversityBostonMA02215USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Koppaka S, Hess-Dunning A, Tyler DJ. Directed stimulation with interfascicular interfaces for peripheral nerve stimulation. J Neural Eng 2021; 18. [PMID: 34706351 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac33e8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Objective.Computational models have shown that directional electrical contacts placed within the epineurium, between the fascicles, and not penetrating the perineurium, can achieve selectivity levels similar to point source contacts placed within the fascicle. The objective of this study is to test, in a murine model, the hypothesis that directed interfascicular contacts are selective.Approach.Multiple interfascicular electrodes with directional contacts, exposed on a single face, were implanted in the sciatic nerves of 32 rabbits. Fine-wire intramuscular wire electrodes were implanted to measure electromyographic (EMG) activity from medial and lateral gastrocnemius, soleus, and tibialis anterior muscles.Main results.The recruitment data demonstrated that directed interfascicular interfaces, which do not penetrate the perineurium, selectively activate different axon populations.Significance.Interfascicular interfaces that are inside the nerve, but do not penetrate the perineurium are an alternative to intrafascicular interfaces and may offer additional selectivity compared to extraneural approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Smruta Koppaka
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America.,Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Rehabilitation R&D, Cleveland, OH, United States of America.,Advanced Platform Technology (APT) Center, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Allison Hess-Dunning
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America.,Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Rehabilitation R&D, Cleveland, OH, United States of America.,Advanced Platform Technology (APT) Center, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Dustin J Tyler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America.,Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Rehabilitation R&D, Cleveland, OH, United States of America.,Advanced Platform Technology (APT) Center, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
New Stimulation Device to Drive Multiple Transverse Intrafascicular Electrodes and Achieve Highly Selective and Rich Neural Responses. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21217219. [PMID: 34770527 PMCID: PMC8587292 DOI: 10.3390/s21217219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) is a promising approach in functional restoration following neural impairments. Although it proves to be advantageous in the number of implantation sites provided compared with intramuscular or epimysial stimulation and the fact that it does not require daily placement, as is the case with surface electrodes, the further advancement of PNS paradigms is hampered by the limitation of spatial selectivity due to the current spread and variations of nerve physiology. New electrode designs such as the Transverse Intrafascicular Multichannel Electrode (TIME) were proposed to resolve this issue, but their use was limited by a lack of innovative multichannel stimulation devices. In this study, we introduce a new portable multichannel stimulator—called STIMEP—and implement different stimulation protocols in rats to test its versatility and unveil the potential of its combined use with TIME electrodes in rehabilitation protocols. We developed and tested various stimulation paradigms in a single fascicle and thereafter implanted two TIMEs. We also tested its stimulation using two different waveforms. The results highlighted the versatility of this new stimulation device and advocated for the parameterizing of a hyperpolarizing phase before depolarization as well as the use of small pulse widths when stimulating with multiple electrodes.
Collapse
|
17
|
Raspopovic S, Valle G, Petrini FM. Sensory feedback for limb prostheses in amputees. NATURE MATERIALS 2021; 20:925-939. [PMID: 33859381 DOI: 10.1038/s41563-021-00966-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Commercial prosthetic devices currently do not provide natural sensory information on the interaction with objects or movements. The subsequent disadvantages include unphysiological walking with a prosthetic leg and difficulty in controlling the force exerted with a prosthetic hand, thus creating health issues. Restoring natural sensory feedback from the prosthesis to amputees is an unmet clinical need. An optimal device should be able to elicit natural sensations of touch or proprioception, by delivering the complex signals to the nervous system that would be produced by skin, muscles and joints receptors. This Review covers the various neurotechnological approaches that have been proposed for the development of the optimal sensory feedback restoration device for arm and leg amputees.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stanisa Raspopovic
- Laboratory for Neuroengineering, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Giacomo Valle
- Laboratory for Neuroengineering, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Maria Petrini
- Laboratory for Neuroengineering, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Carnicer-Lombarte A, Chen ST, Malliaras GG, Barone DG. Foreign Body Reaction to Implanted Biomaterials and Its Impact in Nerve Neuroprosthetics. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:622524. [PMID: 33937212 PMCID: PMC8081831 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.622524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The implantation of any foreign material into the body leads to the development of an inflammatory and fibrotic process-the foreign body reaction (FBR). Upon implantation into a tissue, cells of the immune system become attracted to the foreign material and attempt to degrade it. If this degradation fails, fibroblasts envelop the material and form a physical barrier to isolate it from the rest of the body. Long-term implantation of medical devices faces a great challenge presented by FBR, as the cellular response disrupts the interface between implant and its target tissue. This is particularly true for nerve neuroprosthetic implants-devices implanted into nerves to address conditions such as sensory loss, muscle paralysis, chronic pain, and epilepsy. Nerve neuroprosthetics rely on tight interfacing between nerve tissue and electrodes to detect the tiny electrical signals carried by axons, and/or electrically stimulate small subsets of axons within a nerve. Moreover, as advances in microfabrication drive the field to increasingly miniaturized nerve implants, the need for a stable, intimate implant-tissue interface is likely to quickly become a limiting factor for the development of new neuroprosthetic implant technologies. Here, we provide an overview of the material-cell interactions leading to the development of FBR. We review current nerve neuroprosthetic technologies (cuff, penetrating, and regenerative interfaces) and how long-term function of these is limited by FBR. Finally, we discuss how material properties (such as stiffness and size), pharmacological therapies, or use of biodegradable materials may be exploited to minimize FBR to nerve neuroprosthetic implants and improve their long-term stability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Carnicer-Lombarte
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Shao-Tuan Chen
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - George G. Malliaras
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Damiano G. Barone
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
Peripheral nerve interfaces (PNIs) record and/or modulate neural activity of nerves, which are responsible for conducting sensory-motor information to and from the central nervous system, and for regulating the activity of inner organs. PNIs are used both in neuroscience research and in therapeutical applications such as precise closed-loop control of neuroprosthetic limbs, treatment of neuropathic pain and restoration of vital functions (e.g. breathing and bladder management). Implantable interfaces represent an attractive solution to directly access peripheral nerves and provide enhanced selectivity both in recording and in stimulation, compared to their non-invasive counterparts. Nevertheless, the long-term functionality of implantable PNIs is limited by tissue damage, which occurs at the implant-tissue interface, and is thus highly dependent on material properties, biocompatibility and implant design. Current research focuses on the development of mechanically compliant PNIs, which adapt to the anatomy and dynamic movements of nerves in the body thereby limiting foreign body response. In this paper, we review recent progress in the development of flexible and implantable PNIs, highlighting promising solutions related to materials selection and their associated fabrication methods, and integrated functions. We report on the variety of available interface designs (intraneural, extraneural and regenerative) and different modulation techniques (electrical, optical, chemical) emphasizing the main challenges associated with integrating such systems on compliant substrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Paggi
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Neuroprosthetic Technology, Laboratory for Soft Bioelectronic Interfaces, Institute of Microengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, Centre for Neuroprosthetics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1202 Geneva, Switzerland. Equally contributing authors
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ghelich P, Nolta NF, Han M. Unprotected sidewalls of implantable silicon-based neural probes and conformal coating as a solution. NPJ MATERIALS DEGRADATION 2021; 5:5. [PMID: 33855191 PMCID: PMC8043659 DOI: 10.1038/s41529-021-00154-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Silicon-based implantable neural devices have great translational potential as a means to deliver various treatments for neurological disorders. However, they are currently held back by uncertain longevity following chronic exposure to body fluids. Conventional deposition techniques cover only the horizontal surfaces which contain active electronics, electrode sites, and conducting traces. As a result, a vast majority of today's silicon devices leave their vertical sidewalls exposed without protection. In this work, we investigated two batch-process silicon dioxide deposition methods separately and in combination: atomic layer deposition and inductively-coupled plasma chemical vapor deposition. We then utilized a rapid soak test involving potassium hydroxide to evaluate the coverage quality of each protection strategy. Focused ion beam cross sectioning, scanning electron microscopy, and 3D extrapolation enabled us to characterize and quantify the effectiveness of the deposition methods. Results showed that bare silicon sidewalls suffered the most dissolution whereas ALD silicon dioxide provided the best protection, demonstrating its effectiveness as a promising batch process technique to mitigate silicon sidewall corrosion in chronic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pejman Ghelich
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Nicholas F Nolta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Martin Han
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
- Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Nolta NF, Ghelich P, Ersöz A, Han M. Fabrication and modeling of recessed traces for silicon-based neural microelectrodes. J Neural Eng 2020; 17:056003. [PMID: 32947274 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/abb9bd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Chronically-implanted neural microelectrodes are powerful tools for neuroscience research and emerging clinical applications, but their usefulness is limited by their tendency to fail after months in vivo. One failure mode is the degradation of insulation materials that protect the conductive traces from the saline environment. APPROACH Studies have shown that material degradation is accelerated by mechanical stresses, which tend to concentrate on raised topographies such as conducting traces. Therefore, to avoid raised topographies, we developed a fabrication technique that recesses (buries) the traces in dry-etched, self-aligned trenches. MAIN RESULTS The fabrication technique produced flatness within approximately 15 nm. Finite element modeling showed that the recessed geometry would be expected to reduce intrinsic stress concentrations in the insulation layers. Finally, in vitro electrochemical tests confirmed that recessed traces had robust recording and stimulation capabilities that were comparable to an established non-recessed device design. SIGNIFICANCE Our recessed trace fabrication technique requires no extra masks, is easy to integrate with existing processes, and is likely to improve the long-term performance of implantable neural devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas F Nolta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States of America
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Čvančara P, Boretius T, López-Álvarez VM, Maciejasz P, Andreu D, Raspopovic S, Petrini F, Micera S, Granata G, Fernandez E, Rossini PM, Yoshida K, Jensen W, Divoux JL, Guiraud D, Navarro X, Stieglitz T. Stability of flexible thin-film metallization stimulation electrodes: analysis of explants after first-in-human study and improvement of in vivo performance. J Neural Eng 2020; 17:046006. [PMID: 32512544 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ab9a9a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Micro-fabricated neural interfaces based on polyimide (PI) are achieving increasing importance in translational research. The ability to produce well-defined micro-structures with properties that include chemical inertness, mechanical flexibility and low water uptake are key advantages for these devices. APPROACH This paper reports the development of the transverse intrafascicular multichannel electrode (TIME) used to deliver intraneural sensory feedback to an upper-limb amputee in combination with a sensorized hand prosthesis. A failure mode analysis on the explanted devices was performed after a first-in-human study limited to 30 d. MAIN RESULTS About 90% of the stimulation contact sites of the TIMEs maintained electrical functionality and stability during the full implant period. However, optical analysis post-explantation revealed that 62.5% of the stimulation contacts showed signs of delamination at the metallization-PI interface. Such damage likely occurred due to handling during explantation and subsequent analysis, since a significant change in impedance was not observed in vivo. Nevertheless, whereas device integrity is mandatory for long-term functionality in chronic implantation, measures to increase the bonding strength of the metallization-PI interface deserve further investigation. We report here that silicon carbide (SiC) is an effective adhesion-promoting layer resisting heavy electrical stimulation conditions within a rodent animal trial. Optical analysis of the new electrodes revealed that the metallization remained unaltered after delivering over 14 million pulses in vivo without signs of delamination at the metallization-PI interface. SIGNIFICANCE Failure mode analysis guided implant stability optimization. Reliable adhesion of thin-film metallization to substrate has been proven using SiC, improving the potential transfer of micro-fabricated neural electrodes for chronic clinical applications. (Document number of Ethical Committee: P/905/CE/2012; Date of approval: 2012-10-04).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Čvančara
- Laboratory for Biomedical Microtechnology, Department of Microsystems Engineering - IMTEK, Albert-Ludwig-University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany. Author to whom any correspondence should be addressed
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Kim H, Dingle AM, Ness JP, Baek DH, Bong J, Lee IK, Shulzhenko NO, Zeng W, Israel JS, Pisaniello JA, Millevolte AX, Park DW, Suminski AJ, Jung YH, Williams JC, Poore SO, Ma Z. Cuff and sieve electrode (CASE): The combination of neural electrodes for bi-directional peripheral nerve interfacing. J Neurosci Methods 2020; 336:108602. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2020.108602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
24
|
Yildiz KA, Shin AY, Kaufman KR. Interfaces with the peripheral nervous system for the control of a neuroprosthetic limb: a review. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2020; 17:43. [PMID: 32151268 PMCID: PMC7063740 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-020-00667-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of prosthetics has been evolving and advancing over the past decade, as patients with missing extremities are expecting to control their prostheses in as normal a way as possible. Scientists have attempted to satisfy this expectation by designing a connection between the nervous system of the patient and the prosthetic limb, creating the field of neuroprosthetics. In this paper, we broadly review the techniques used to bridge the patient's peripheral nervous system to a prosthetic limb. First, we describe the electrical methods including myoelectric systems, surgical innovations and the role of nerve electrodes. We then describe non-electrical methods used alone or in combination with electrical methods. Design concerns from an engineering point of view are explored, and novel improvements to obtain a more stable interface are described. Finally, a critique of the methods with respect to their long-term impacts is provided. In this review, nerve electrodes are found to be one of the most promising interfaces in the future for intuitive user control. Clinical trials with larger patient populations, and for longer periods of time for certain interfaces, will help to evaluate the clinical application of nerve electrodes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kadir A Yildiz
- Motion Analysis Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Alexander Y Shin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Kenton R Kaufman
- Motion Analysis Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
- Motion Analysis Laboratory, W. Hall Wendel, Jr., Musculoskeletal Research, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Torres-Martinez N, Ratel D, Crétallaz C, Gaude C, Maubert S, Divoux JL, Henry C, Guiraud D, Sauter-Starace F. Reliability of parylene-based multi-electrode arrays chronically implanted in adult rat brains, and evidence of electrical stimulation on contact impedance. J Neural Eng 2019; 16:066047. [PMID: 31374559 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ab3836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to evaluate the long-term behavior of the surface electrode through electrochemical characterization and follow-up of implanted parylene/platinum microelectrodes. APPROACH To this aim, we designed and manufactured specific planar electrodes for cortical implantation for a rat model. This work was included in the INTENSE® project, one of the goals of which was to prove the feasibility of selective neural recording or stimulation with cuff electrodes around the vagus nerve. MAIN RESULTS After a 12-week implantation in a rat model, we can report that these microelectrodes have withstood in vivo use. Regarding the biocompatibility of the electrodes (materials and manufacturing process), no adverse effect was reported. Indeed, after the three-month implantation, we characterized limited tissue reaction beneath the electrodes and showed an increase and a stabilization of their impedance. Interestingly, the follow-up of the electrochemical impedance combined with electrical stimulation highlighted a drop in the impedance up to 60% at 1 kHz after ten minutes of electrical stimulation at 110 Hz. SIGNIFICANCE This study gives evidence of the biocompatibility of the parylene platinum contact array designed for the project and confirms the effect of stimulation on the contact impedance.
Collapse
|
26
|
A review for the peripheral nerve interface designer. J Neurosci Methods 2019; 332:108523. [PMID: 31743684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2019.108523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Informational density and relative accessibility of the peripheral nervous system make it an attractive site for therapeutic intervention. Electrode-based electrophysiological interfaces with peripheral nerves have been under development since the 1960s and, for several applications, have seen widespread clinical implementation. However, many applications require a combination of neural target resolution and stability which has thus far eluded existing peripheral nerve interfaces (PNIs). With the goal of aiding PNI designers in development of devices that meet the demands of next-generation applications, this review seeks to collect and present practical considerations and best practices which emerge from the literature, including both lessons learned during early PNI development and recent ideas. Fundamental and practical principles guiding PNI design are reviewed, followed by an updated and critical account of existing PNI designs and strategies. Finally, a brief survey of in vitro and in vivo PNI characterization methods is presented.
Collapse
|
27
|
Sharma K, Sharma R. Design considerations for effective neural signal sensing and amplification: a review. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2019. [DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/ab1674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
28
|
Lancashire HT, Jiang D, Demosthenous A, Donaldson N. An ASIC for Recording and Stimulation in Stacked Microchannel Neural Interfaces. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON BIOMEDICAL CIRCUITS AND SYSTEMS 2019; 13:259-270. [PMID: 30624225 DOI: 10.1109/tbcas.2019.2891284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents an active microchannel neural interface (MNI) using seven stacked application specific integrated circuits (ASICs). The approach provides a solution to the present problem of interconnect density in three-dimensional (3-D) MNIs. The 4 mm2 ASIC is implemented in 0.35 μm high-voltage CMOS technology. Each ASIC is the base for seven microchannels each with three electrodes in a pseudo-tripolar arrangement. Multiplexing allows stimulating or recording from any one of 49 channels, across seven ASICs. Connections to the ASICs are made with a five-line parallel bus. Current controlled biphasic stimulation from 5 to 500 μA has been demonstrated with switching between channels and ASICs. The high-voltage technology gives a compliance of 40 V for stimulation, appropriate for the high impedances within microchannels. High frequency biphasic stimulation, up to 40 kHz is achieved, suitable for reversible high frequency nerve blockades. Recording has been demonstrated with mV level signals; common-mode inputs are differentially distorted and limit the CMRR to 40 dB. The ASIC has been used in vitro in conjunction with an oversize (2 mm diameter) microchannel in phosphate buffered saline, demonstrating attenuation of interference from outside the microchannel and tripolar recording of signals from within the microchannel. By using five-lines for 49 active microchannels the device overcomes limitations when connecting many electrodes in a 3-D miniaturized nerve interface.
Collapse
|
29
|
de la Oliva N, Del Valle J, Delgado-Martinez I, Mueller M, Stieglitz T, Navarro X. Long-Term Functionality of Transversal Intraneural Electrodes Is Improved By Dexamethasone Treatment. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2019; 27:457-464. [PMID: 30716042 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2019.2897256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Neuroprostheses aimed to restore lost functions after a limb amputation are based on the interaction with the nervous system by means of neural interfaces. Among the different designs, intraneural electrodes implanted in peripheral nerves represent a good strategy to stimulate nerve fibers to send sensory feedback and to record nerve signals to control the prosthetic limb. However, intraneural electrodes, as any device implanted in the body, induce a foreign body reaction (FBR) that results in the tissue encapsulation of the device. The FBR causes a progressive decline of the electrode functionality over time due to the physical separation between the electrode active sites and the axons to interface. Modulation of the inflammatory response has arisen as a good strategy to reduce the FBR and maintain electrode functionality. In this study transversal intraneural multi-channel electrodes (TIMEs) were implanted in the rat sciatic nerve and tested for 3 months to evaluate stimulation and recording capabilities under chronic administration of dexamethasone. Dexamethasone treatment significantly reduced the threshold for evoking muscle responses during the follow-up compared to saline-treated animals, without affecting the selectivity of stimulation. However, dexamethasone treatment did not improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the recorded neural signals. Dexamethasone treatment allowed to maintain more working active sites along time than saline treatment. Thus, systemic administration of dexamethasone appears as a useful treatment in chronically implanted animals with neural electrodes as it increases the number of functioning contacts of the implanted TIME and reduces the intensity needed to stimulate the nerve.
Collapse
|
30
|
Renz AF, Reichmuth AM, Stauffer F, Thompson-Steckel G, Vörös J. A guide towards long-term functional electrodes interfacing neuronal tissue. J Neural Eng 2018; 15:061001. [DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aae0c2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
31
|
Integrity Assessment of a Hybrid DBS Probe that Enables Neurotransmitter Detection Simultaneously to Electrical Stimulation and Recording. MICROMACHINES 2018; 9:mi9100510. [PMID: 30424443 PMCID: PMC6215126 DOI: 10.3390/mi9100510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a successful medical therapy for many treatment resistant neuropsychiatric disorders such as movement disorders; e.g., Parkinson's disease, Tremor, and dystonia. Moreover, DBS is becoming more and more appealing for a rapidly growing number of patients with other neuropsychiatric diseases such as depression and obsessive compulsive disorder. In spite of the promising outcomes, the current clinical hardware used in DBS does not match the technological standards of other medical applications and as a result could possibly lead to side effects such as high energy consumption and others. By implementing more advanced DBS devices, in fact, many of these limitations could be overcome. For example, a higher channels count and smaller electrode sites could allow more focal and tailored stimulation. In addition, new materials, like carbon for example, could be incorporated into the probes to enable adaptive stimulation protocols by biosensing neurotransmitters in the brain. Updating the current clinical DBS technology adequately requires combining the most recent technological advances in the field of neural engineering. Here, a novel hybrid multimodal DBS probe with glassy carbon microelectrodes on a polyimide thin-film device assembled on a silicon rubber tubing is introduced. The glassy carbon interface enables neurotransmitter detection using fast scan cyclic voltammetry and electrophysiological recordings while simultaneously performing electrical stimulation. Additionally, the presented DBS technology shows no imaging artefacts in magnetic resonance imaging. Thus, we present a promising new tool that might lead to a better fundamental understanding of the underlying mechanism of DBS while simultaneously paving our way towards better treatments.
Collapse
|
32
|
Mueller M, de la Oliva N, Del Valle J, Delgado-Martínez I, Navarro X, Stieglitz T. Rapid prototyping of flexible intrafascicular electrode arrays by picosecond laser structuring. J Neural Eng 2018; 14:066016. [PMID: 28695839 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aa7eea] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Interfacing the peripheral nervous system can be performed with a large variety of electrode arrays. However, stimulating and recording a nerve while having a reasonable amount of channels limits the number of available systems. Translational research towards human clinical trial requires device safety and biocompatibility but would benefit from design flexibility in the development process to individualize probes. APPROACH We selected established medical grade implant materials like precious metals and Parylene C to develop a rapid prototyping process for novel intrafascicular electrode arrays using a picosecond laser structuring. A design for a rodent animal model was developed in conjunction with an intrafascicular implantation strategy. Electrode characterization and optimization was performed first in saline solution in vitro before performance and biocompatibility were validated in sciatic nerves of rats in chronic implantation. MAIN RESULTS The novel fabrication process proved to be suitable for prototyping and building intrafascicular electrode arrays. Electrochemical properties of the electrode sites were enhanced and tested for long-term stability. Chronic implantation in the sciatic nerve of rats showed good biocompatibility, selectivity and stable stimulation thresholds. SIGNIFICANCE Established medical grade materials can be used for intrafascicular nerve electrode arrays when laser structuring defines structure size in the micro-scale. Design flexibility reduces re-design cycle time and material certificates are beneficial support for safety studies on the way to clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Mueller
- Laboratory for Biomedical Microtechnology, Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), University of Freiburg, Georges-Koehler-Allee 102, D-79110 Freiburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Spearman BS, Desai VH, Mobini S, McDermott MD, Graham JB, Otto KJ, Judy JW, Schmidt CE. Tissue-Engineered Peripheral Nerve Interfaces. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2018; 28:1701713. [PMID: 37829558 PMCID: PMC10569514 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201701713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Research on neural interfaces has historically concentrated on development of systems for the brain; however, there is increasing interest in peripheral nerve interfaces (PNIs) that could provide benefit when peripheral nerve function is compromised, such as for amputees. Efforts focus on designing scalable and high-performance sensory and motor peripheral nervous system interfaces. Current PNIs face several design challenges such as undersampling of signals from the thousands of axons, nerve-fiber selectivity, and device-tissue integration. To improve PNIs, several researchers have turned to tissue engineering. Peripheral nerve tissue engineering has focused on designing regeneration scaffolds that mimic normal nerve extracellular matrix composition, provide advanced microarchitecture to stimulate cell migration, and have mechanical properties like the native nerve. By combining PNIs with tissue engineering, the goal is to promote natural axon regeneration into the devices to facilitate close contact with electrodes; in contrast, traditional PNIs rely on insertion or placement of electrodes into or around existing nerves, or do not utilize materials to actively facilitate axon regeneration. This review presents the state-of-the-art of PNIs and nerve tissue engineering, highlights recent approaches to combine neural-interface technology and tissue engineering, and addresses the remaining challenges with foreign-body response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin S Spearman
- Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr., BMS Building JG-56, 116131, Gainesville, FL 32611-6131
| | - Vidhi H Desai
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, The University of Florida, 216 Larsen Hall, 116200, Gainesville, FL 32611-6200
- Nanoscience Institute for Medical and Engineering Technology, The University of Florida, 1041 Center Drive, 116621, Gainesville, FL 32611-6621
| | - Sahba Mobini
- Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr., BMS Building JG-56, 116131, Gainesville, FL 32611-6131
| | - Matthew D McDermott
- Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr., BMS Building JG-56, 116131, Gainesville, FL 32611-6131
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, 206 S. Martin Jischke Dr., West Lafayette, IN 47907-2032
| | - James B Graham
- Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr., BMS Building JG-56, 116131, Gainesville, FL 32611-6131
| | - Kevin J Otto
- Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr., BMS Building JG-56, 116131, Gainesville, FL 32611-6131
- Nanoscience Institute for Medical and Engineering Technology, The University of Florida, 1041 Center Drive, 116621, Gainesville, FL 32611-6621
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Florida, 1149 Newell Dr., Room L1-100, 100244, Gainesville, FL 32610-0244
- Department of Neurology, The University of Florida, 2000 SW Archer Rd., Third Floor, 100383, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - Jack W Judy
- Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr., BMS Building JG-56, 116131, Gainesville, FL 32611-6131
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, The University of Florida, 216 Larsen Hall, 116200, Gainesville, FL 32611-6200
- Nanoscience Institute for Medical and Engineering Technology, The University of Florida, 1041 Center Drive, 116621, Gainesville, FL 32611-6621
| | - Christine E Schmidt
- Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr., BMS Building JG-56, 116131, Gainesville, FL 32611-6131
- Nanoscience Institute for Medical and Engineering Technology, The University of Florida, 1041 Center Drive, 116621, Gainesville, FL 32611-6621
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Hong KS, Aziz N, Ghafoor U. Motor-commands decoding using peripheral nerve signals: a review. J Neural Eng 2018; 15:031004. [PMID: 29498358 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aab383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
During the last few decades, substantial scientific and technological efforts have been focused on the development of neuroprostheses. The major emphasis has been on techniques for connecting the human nervous system with a robotic prosthesis via natural-feeling interfaces. The peripheral nerves provide access to highly processed and segregated neural command signals from the brain that can in principle be used to determine user intent and control muscles. If these signals could be used, they might allow near-natural and intuitive control of prosthetic limbs with multiple degrees of freedom. This review summarizes the history of neuroprosthetic interfaces and their ability to record from and stimulate peripheral nerves. We also discuss the types of interfaces available and their applications, the kinds of peripheral nerve signals that are used, and the algorithms used to decode them. Finally, we explore the prospects for future development in this area.
Collapse
|
35
|
Wang J, Thow XY, Wang H, Lee S, Voges K, Thakor NV, Yen SC, Lee C. A Highly Selective 3D Spiked Ultraflexible Neural (SUN) Interface for Decoding Peripheral Nerve Sensory Information. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7. [PMID: 29205933 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201700987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Revised: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Artificial sensors on the skin are proposed as a way to capture information that can be used in intracortical microstimulation or peripheral intraneural stimulation to restore sensory feedback to persons with tetraplegia. However, the ability of these artificial sensors to replicate the density and complexity of the natural mechanoreceptors is limited. One relatively unexplored approach is to make use of the signals from surviving tactile and proprioceptive receptors in existing limbs by recording from their transmitting axons within the primary sensory nerves. Here, a novel spiked ultraflexible neural (SUN) interface that is implanted into the peripheral nervous system to capture sensory information from these mechanoreceptors in acute rat experiments is described. The novel 3D design, which integrates spiked structures for intrafascicular nerve recording with an ultraflexible substrate, enables a unique conformal interface to the target nerve. With the high-quality recording (average signal-to-noise-ratio of 1.4) provided by the electrode, tactile from proprioceptive stimuli can be differentiated in terms of the firing rate. In toe pinching experiments, high spatial resolution classification can be achieved with support vector machine classifier. Further work remains to be done to assess the chronic recording capability of the SUN interface.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Wang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering; National University of Singapore; 4 Engineering Drive 3 Singapore 117576 Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SINAPSE); National University of Singapore; 28 Medical Drive, #05-COR Singapore 117456 Singapore
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMS; National University of Singapore; 4 Engineering Drive 3 Singapore 117576 Singapore
| | - Xin Yuan Thow
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SINAPSE); National University of Singapore; 28 Medical Drive, #05-COR Singapore 117456 Singapore
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering; National University of Singapore; 4 Engineering Drive 3 Singapore 117576 Singapore
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMS; National University of Singapore; 4 Engineering Drive 3 Singapore 117576 Singapore
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering; National University of Singapore; 4 Engineering Drive 3 Singapore 117576 Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SINAPSE); National University of Singapore; 28 Medical Drive, #05-COR Singapore 117456 Singapore
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMS; National University of Singapore; 4 Engineering Drive 3 Singapore 117576 Singapore
| | - Kai Voges
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SINAPSE); National University of Singapore; 28 Medical Drive, #05-COR Singapore 117456 Singapore
| | - Nitish V. Thakor
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering; National University of Singapore; 4 Engineering Drive 3 Singapore 117576 Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SINAPSE); National University of Singapore; 28 Medical Drive, #05-COR Singapore 117456 Singapore
| | - Shih-Cheng Yen
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering; National University of Singapore; 4 Engineering Drive 3 Singapore 117576 Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SINAPSE); National University of Singapore; 28 Medical Drive, #05-COR Singapore 117456 Singapore
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMS; National University of Singapore; 4 Engineering Drive 3 Singapore 117576 Singapore
| | - Chengkuo Lee
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering; National University of Singapore; 4 Engineering Drive 3 Singapore 117576 Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SINAPSE); National University of Singapore; 28 Medical Drive, #05-COR Singapore 117456 Singapore
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMS; National University of Singapore; 4 Engineering Drive 3 Singapore 117576 Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Jung R, Abbas JJ, Kuntaegowdanahalli S, Thota AK. Bionic intrafascicular interfaces for recording and stimulating peripheral nerve fibers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 1:55-69. [PMID: 29480906 DOI: 10.2217/bem-2017-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The network of peripheral nerves presents extraordinary potential for modulating and/or monitoring the functioning of internal organs or the brain. The degree to which these pathways can be used to influence or observe neural activity patterns will depend greatly on the quality and specificity of the bionic interface. The anatomical organization, which consists of multiple nerve fibers clustered into fascicles within a nerve bundle, presents opportunities and challenges that may necessitate insertion of electrodes into individual fascicles to achieve the specificity that may be required for many clinical applications. This manuscript reviews the current state-of-the-art in bionic intrafascicular interfaces, presents specific concerns for stimulation and recording, describes key implementation considerations and discusses challenges for future designs of bionic intrafascicular interfaces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ranu Jung
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, EC2602, 10555 W Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33134, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, EC2602, 10555 W Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33134, USA
| | - James J Abbas
- Center for Adaptive Neural Systems, School of Biological & Health Systems Engineering, PO Box 879709 Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-9709, USA.,Center for Adaptive Neural Systems, School of Biological & Health Systems Engineering, PO Box 879709 Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-9709, USA
| | - Sathyakumar Kuntaegowdanahalli
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, EC2602, 10555 W Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33134, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, EC2602, 10555 W Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33134, USA
| | - Anil K Thota
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, EC2602, 10555 W Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33134, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, EC2602, 10555 W Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33134, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
de la Oliva N, Navarro X, Del Valle J. Time course study of long-term biocompatibility and foreign body reaction to intraneural polyimide-based implants. J Biomed Mater Res A 2017; 106:746-757. [PMID: 29052368 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.36274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The foreign body reaction (FBR) against an implanted device is characterized by the formation of a fibrotic tissue around the implant. In the case of interfaces for peripheral nerves, used to stimulate specific group of axons and to record different nerve signals, the FBR induces a matrix deposition around the implant creating a physical separation between nerve fibers and the interface that may reduce its functionality over time. In order to understand how the FBR to intraneural interfaces evolves, polyimide non-functional devices were implanted in rat peripheral nerve. Functional tests (electrophysiological, pain and locomotion) and histological evaluation demonstrated that implanted devices did not cause any alteration in nerve function, in myelinated axons or in nerve architecture. The inflammatory response due to the surgical implantation decreased after 2 weeks. In contrast, inflammation was higher and more prolonged in the device implanted nerves with a peak after 2 weeks. With regard to tissue deposition, a tissue capsule appeared soon around the devices, acquiring maximal thickness at 2 weeks and being remodeled subsequently. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed two different cell types implicated in the FBR in the nerve: macrophages as the first cells in contact with the interface and fibroblasts that appear later at the edge of the capsule. Our results describe how the FBR against a polyimide implant in the peripheral nerve occurs and which are the main cellular players. Increasing knowledge of these responses will help to improve strategies to decrease the FBR against intraneural implants and to extend their usability. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 746-757, 2018.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natàlia de la Oliva
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Institute of Neurosciences, Bellaterra, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Navarro
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Institute of Neurosciences, Bellaterra, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Del Valle
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Institute of Neurosciences, Bellaterra, 08193, Barcelona, Spain.,Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), CSIC and BIST, Campus UAB, Bellaterra, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Ghafoor U, Kim S, Hong KS. Selectivity and Longevity of Peripheral-Nerve and Machine Interfaces: A Review. Front Neurorobot 2017; 11:59. [PMID: 29163122 PMCID: PMC5671609 DOI: 10.3389/fnbot.2017.00059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
For those individuals with upper-extremity amputation, a daily normal living activity is no longer possible or it requires additional effort and time. With the aim of restoring their sensory and motor functions, theoretical and technological investigations have been carried out in the field of neuroprosthetic systems. For transmission of sensory feedback, several interfacing modalities including indirect (non-invasive), direct-to-peripheral-nerve (invasive), and cortical stimulation have been applied. Peripheral nerve interfaces demonstrate an edge over the cortical interfaces due to the sensitivity in attaining cortical brain signals. The peripheral nerve interfaces are highly dependent on interface designs and are required to be biocompatible with the nerves to achieve prolonged stability and longevity. Another criterion is the selection of nerves that allows minimal invasiveness and damages as well as high selectivity for a large number of nerve fascicles. In this paper, we review the nerve-machine interface modalities noted above with more focus on peripheral nerve interfaces, which are responsible for provision of sensory feedback. The invasive interfaces for recording and stimulation of electro-neurographic signals include intra-fascicular, regenerative-type interfaces that provide multiple contact channels to a group of axons inside the nerve and the extra-neural-cuff-type interfaces that enable interaction with many axons around the periphery of the nerve. Section Current Prosthetic Technology summarizes the advancements made to date in the field of neuroprosthetics toward the achievement of a bidirectional nerve-machine interface with more focus on sensory feedback. In the Discussion section, the authors propose a hybrid interface technique for achieving better selectivity and long-term stability using the available nerve interfacing techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Usman Ghafoor
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, South Korea
| | - Sohee Kim
- Department of Robotics Engineering, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Keum-Shik Hong
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, South Korea.,Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Lotti F, Ranieri F, Vadalà G, Zollo L, Di Pino G. Invasive Intraneural Interfaces: Foreign Body Reaction Issues. Front Neurosci 2017; 11:497. [PMID: 28932181 PMCID: PMC5592213 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Intraneural interfaces are stimulation/registration devices designed to couple the peripheral nervous system (PNS) with the environment. Over the last years, their use has increased in a wide range of applications, such as the control of a new generation of neural-interfaced prostheses. At present, the success of this technology is limited by an electrical impedance increase, due to an inflammatory response called foreign body reaction (FBR), which leads to the formation of a fibrotic tissue around the interface, eventually causing an inefficient transduction of the electrical signal. Based on recent developments in biomaterials and inflammatory/fibrotic pathologies, we explore and select the biological solutions that might be adopted in the neural interfaces FBR context: modifications of the interface surface, such as organic and synthetic coatings; the use of specific drugs or molecular biology tools to target the microenvironment around the interface; the development of bio-engineered-scaffold to reduce immune response and promote interface-tissue integration. By linking what we believe are the major crucial steps of the FBR process with related solutions, we point out the main issues that future research has to focus on: biocompatibility without losing signal conduction properties, good reproducible in vitro/in vivo models, drugs exhaustion and undesired side effects. The underlined pros and cons of proposed solutions show clearly the importance of a better understanding of all the molecular and cellular pathways involved and the need of a multi-target action based on a bio-engineered combination approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiorenza Lotti
- NeXT: Neurophysiology and Neuroengineering of Human-Technology Interaction Research Unit, Università Campus Bio-MedicoRome, Italy.,Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Università Campus Bio-MedicoRome, Italy
| | - Federico Ranieri
- NeXT: Neurophysiology and Neuroengineering of Human-Technology Interaction Research Unit, Università Campus Bio-MedicoRome, Italy.,Fondazione Alberto Sordi-Research Institute for AgingRome, Italy.,Research Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology and Neurobiology, Università Campus Bio-MedicoRome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Vadalà
- Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Università Campus Bio-MedicoRome, Italy
| | - Loredana Zollo
- Research Unit of Biomedical Robotics and Biomicrosystems, Università Campus Bio-MedicoRome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Di Pino
- NeXT: Neurophysiology and Neuroengineering of Human-Technology Interaction Research Unit, Università Campus Bio-MedicoRome, Italy.,Research Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology and Neurobiology, Università Campus Bio-MedicoRome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Wurth S, Capogrosso M, Raspopovic S, Gandar J, Federici G, Kinany N, Cutrone A, Piersigilli A, Pavlova N, Guiet R, Taverni G, Rigosa J, Shkorbatova P, Navarro X, Barraud Q, Courtine G, Micera S. Long-term usability and bio-integration of polyimide-based intra-neural stimulating electrodes. Biomaterials 2017; 122:114-129. [PMID: 28110171 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2017.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Stimulation of peripheral nerves has transiently restored lost sensation and has the potential to alleviate motor deficits. However, incomplete characterization of the long-term usability and bio-integration of intra-neural implants has restricted their use for clinical applications. Here, we conducted a longitudinal assessment of the selectivity, stability, functionality, and biocompatibility of polyimide-based intra-neural implants that were inserted in the sciatic nerve of twenty-three healthy adult rats for up to six months. We found that the stimulation threshold and impedance of the electrodes increased moderately during the first four weeks after implantation, and then remained stable over the following five months. The time course of these adaptations correlated with the progressive development of a fibrotic capsule around the implants. The selectivity of the electrodes enabled the preferential recruitment of extensor and flexor muscles of the ankle. Despite the foreign body reaction, this selectivity remained stable over time. These functional properties supported the development of control algorithms that modulated the forces produced by ankle extensor and flexor muscles with high precision. The comprehensive characterization of the implant encapsulation revealed hyper-cellularity, increased microvascular density, Wallerian degeneration, and infiltration of macrophages within the endoneurial space early after implantation. Over time, the amount of macrophages markedly decreased, and a layer of multinucleated giant cells surrounded by a capsule of fibrotic tissue developed around the implant, causing an enlargement of the diameter of the nerve. However, the density of nerve fibers above and below the inserted implant remained unaffected. Upon removal of the implant, we did not detect alteration of skilled leg movements and only observed mild tissue reaction. Our study characterized the interplay between the development of foreign body responses and changes in the electrical properties of actively used intra-neural electrodes, highlighting functional stability of polyimide-based implants over more than six months. These results are essential for refining and validating these implants and open a realistic pathway for long-term clinical applications in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Wurth
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland; International Paraplegic Foundation Chair in Spinal Cord Repair, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - M Capogrosso
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland; The Biorobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - S Raspopovic
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland; The Biorobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - J Gandar
- International Paraplegic Foundation Chair in Spinal Cord Repair, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - G Federici
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - N Kinany
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - A Cutrone
- The Biorobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - A Piersigilli
- Laboratory Animals Pathology Unit, Institute of Animal Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - N Pavlova
- International Paraplegic Foundation Chair in Spinal Cord Repair, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland; Pavlov Institute of Physiology, St Petersbourg, Russia
| | - R Guiet
- Bioimaging and Optics Platform, Faculty of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - G Taverni
- The Biorobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - J Rigosa
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland; SAMBA Lab, International School for Advanced Studies, Trieste, Italy
| | - P Shkorbatova
- International Paraplegic Foundation Chair in Spinal Cord Repair, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland; Pavlov Institute of Physiology, St Petersbourg, Russia
| | - X Navarro
- Institute of Neurosciences, Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, and CIBERNED, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Q Barraud
- International Paraplegic Foundation Chair in Spinal Cord Repair, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - G Courtine
- International Paraplegic Foundation Chair in Spinal Cord Repair, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - S Micera
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland; The Biorobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Carboni C, Bisoni L, Carta N, Puddu R, Raspopovic S, Navarro X, Raffo L, Barbaro M. An integrated interface for peripheral neural system recording and stimulation: system design, electrical tests and in-vivo results. Biomed Microdevices 2016; 18:35. [PMID: 27007860 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-016-0043-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The prototype of an electronic bi-directional interface between the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) and a neuro-controlled hand prosthesis is presented. The system is composed of 2 integrated circuits: a standard CMOS device for neural recording and a HVCMOS device for neural stimulation. The integrated circuits have been realized in 2 different 0.35μ m CMOS processes available from ams. The complete system incorporates 8 channels each including the analog front-end, the A/D conversion, based on a sigma delta architecture and a programmable stimulation module implemented as a 5-bit current DAC; two voltage boosters supply the output stimulation stage with a programmable voltage scalable up to 17V. Successful in-vivo experiments with rats having a TIME electrode implanted in the sciatic nerve were carried out, showing the capability of recording neural signals in the tens of microvolts, with a global noise of 7μ V r m s , and to selectively elicit the tibial and plantar muscles using different active sites of the electrode.
Collapse
|
42
|
|
43
|
Xiang Z, Sheshadri S, Lee S, Wang J, Xue N, Thakor NV, Yen S, Lee C. Mapping of Small Nerve Trunks and Branches Using Adaptive Flexible Electrodes. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2016; 3:1500386. [PMID: 27981020 PMCID: PMC5039981 DOI: 10.1002/advs.201500386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Revised: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Selective stimulation is delivered to the sciatic nerve using different paris of contacts on a split-ring electrode, while simulatneous recordings are acquired by the neural ribbon electrodes on three different branches. Two hook electrodes are also implanted in the muscle to monitor the activated muscle responses. It shows that the high precision implantation of electrodes, increases the efficacy and reduces the incidence of side effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuolin Xiang
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringNational University of Singapore4 Engineering Drive 3Singapore117583Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SiNAPSE)National University of Singapore28 Medical Drive, #05‐CORSingapore117456Singapore
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMSNational University of Singapore4 Engineering Drive 3Singapore117576Singapore
| | - Swathi Sheshadri
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringNational University of Singapore4 Engineering Drive 3Singapore117583Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SiNAPSE)National University of Singapore28 Medical Drive, #05‐CORSingapore117456Singapore
| | - Sang‐Hoon Lee
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringNational University of Singapore4 Engineering Drive 3Singapore117583Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SiNAPSE)National University of Singapore28 Medical Drive, #05‐CORSingapore117456Singapore
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMSNational University of Singapore4 Engineering Drive 3Singapore117576Singapore
| | - Jiahui Wang
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringNational University of Singapore4 Engineering Drive 3Singapore117583Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SiNAPSE)National University of Singapore28 Medical Drive, #05‐CORSingapore117456Singapore
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMSNational University of Singapore4 Engineering Drive 3Singapore117576Singapore
| | - Ning Xue
- Institute of Microelectronics (IME)Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)11 Science Park Road, Singapore Science Park IISingapore117685Singapore
| | - Nitish V. Thakor
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringNational University of Singapore4 Engineering Drive 3Singapore117583Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SiNAPSE)National University of Singapore28 Medical Drive, #05‐CORSingapore117456Singapore
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringSchool of MedicineJohns Hopkins University BaltimoreMD21205USA
| | - Shih‐Cheng Yen
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringNational University of Singapore4 Engineering Drive 3Singapore117583Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SiNAPSE)National University of Singapore28 Medical Drive, #05‐CORSingapore117456Singapore
| | - Chengkuo Lee
- Department of Electrical and Computer EngineeringNational University of Singapore4 Engineering Drive 3Singapore117583Singapore
- Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology (SiNAPSE)National University of Singapore28 Medical Drive, #05‐CORSingapore117456Singapore
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMSNational University of Singapore4 Engineering Drive 3Singapore117576Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Delgado-Martínez I, Badia J, Pascual-Font A, Rodríguez-Baeza A, Navarro X. Fascicular Topography of the Human Median Nerve for Neuroprosthetic Surgery. Front Neurosci 2016; 10:286. [PMID: 27445660 PMCID: PMC4929846 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most sought-after applications of neuroengineering is the communication between the arm and an artificial prosthetic device for the replacement of an amputated hand or the treatment of peripheral nerve injuries. For that, an electrode is placed around or inside the median nerve to serve as interface for recording and stimulation of nerve signals coming from the fascicles that innervate the muscles responsible for hand movements. Due to the lack of a standard procedure, the electrode implantation by the surgeon is strongly based on intuition, which may result in poor performance of the neuroprosthesis because of the suboptimal location of the neural interface. To provide morphological data that can aid the neuroprosthetic surgeon with this procedure, we investigated the fascicular topography of the human median nerve along the forearm and upper arm. We first performed a description of the fascicular content and branching patterns along the length of the arm. Next we built a 3D reconstruction of the median nerve so we could analyze the fascicle morphological features in relation to the arm level. Finally, we characterized the motor content of the median nerve fascicles in the upper arm. Collectively, these results indicate that fascicular organization occurs in a short segment distal to the epicondyles and remains unaltered until the muscular branches leave the main trunk. Based on our results, overall recommendations based on electrode type and implant location can be drawn to help and aid the neuroprosthetic procedure. Invasive interfaces would be more convenient for the upper arm and the most proximal third of the forearm. Epineural electrodes seem to be most suitable for the forearm segment after fascicles have been divided from the main trunk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Delgado-Martínez
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades NeurodegenerativasMadrid, Spain
| | - Jordi Badia
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades NeurodegenerativasMadrid, Spain
| | - Arán Pascual-Font
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Rodríguez-Baeza
- Department of Morphological Sciences, School of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Navarro
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades NeurodegenerativasMadrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Pascual-Font A, Cubillos L, Vázquez T, McHanwell S, Sañudo JR, Maranillo E. Are the interarytenoid muscles supplied by branches of both the recurrent and superior laryngeal nerves? Laryngoscope 2016; 126:1117-22. [DOI: 10.1002/lary.25375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Arán Pascual-Font
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology I; School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid (A.P-F., L.C., T.V., J.R.S., E.M.); Madrid Spain
| | - Luis Cubillos
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology I; School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid (A.P-F., L.C., T.V., J.R.S., E.M.); Madrid Spain
| | - Teresa Vázquez
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology I; School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid (A.P-F., L.C., T.V., J.R.S., E.M.); Madrid Spain
| | - Steve McHanwell
- School of Medical Education, Newcastle University (S.M.); Newcastle United Kingdom
| | - José R. Sañudo
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology I; School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid (A.P-F., L.C., T.V., J.R.S., E.M.); Madrid Spain
| | - Eva Maranillo
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology I; School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid (A.P-F., L.C., T.V., J.R.S., E.M.); Madrid Spain
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Qiao S, Stieglitz T, Yoshida K. Estimation of the Electrode-Fiber Bioelectrical Coupling From Extracellularly Recorded Single Fiber Action Potentials. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2015; 24:951-960. [PMID: 26469339 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2015.2489924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Selective peripheral neural interfaces are currently capable of detecting minute electrical signals from nearby nerve fibers as single fiber action potential (SFAP) waveforms. Each detected single unit has a distinct shape originating from the unique bioelectrical coupling that exists between the neuroprosthetic electrode, the nerve fiber and the extracellular milieu. The bioelectrical coupling manifests itself as a series of low-pass Bessel filters acting on the action currents along the nerve fiber. Here, we present a method to estimate the electrode-fiber bioelectrical coupling through a quantitative analysis of the spectral distribution of the single units extracellularly recorded with the thin-film longitudinal intrafascicular electrode (tfLIFE) in an in vivo mammalian peripheral nerve animal model. The bioelectrical coupling estimate is an estimate of the electrode sensitivity function traversed by the nerve fiber, suggesting that it is as a means to directly measure the spatial relationship between the nerve fiber and electrode. It not only reflects a shape change to the SFAP, but has implications for in situ nerve fiber location tracking, in situ diagnostics of nerves and neuroproshetic electrodes, and assessment of the biocompatibility of neural interfaces and the health of the reporting nerve fibers.
Collapse
|
47
|
Lee S, Yen SC, Sheshadri S, Delgado-Martinez I, Xue N, Xiang Z, Thakor NV, Lee C. Flexible Epineural Strip Electrode for Recording in Fine Nerves. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2015; 63:581-7. [PMID: 26276980 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2015.2466442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
This paper demonstrates flexible epineural strip electrodes (FLESE) for recording from small nerves. Small strip-shaped FLESE enables us to easily and closely stick on various sized nerves for less damage in a nerve and optimal recording quality. In addition, in order to enhance the neural interface, the gold electrode contacts were coated with carbon nanotubes, which reduced the impedance of the electrodes. We used the FLESEs to record electrically elicited nerve signals (compound neural action potentials) from the sciatic nerve in rats. Bipolar and differential bipolar configurations for the recording were investigated to optimize the recording configuration of the FLESEs. The successful results from differential bipolar recordings showed that the total length of FLESEs could be further reduced, maintaining the maximum recording ability, which would be beneficial for recording in very fine nerves. Our results demonstrate that new concept of FLESEs could play an important role in electroceuticals in near future.
Collapse
|
48
|
Badia J, Raspopovic S, Carpaneto J, Micera S, Navarro X. Spatial and Functional Selectivity of Peripheral Nerve Signal Recording With the Transversal Intrafascicular Multichannel Electrode (TIME). IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2015; 24:20-7. [PMID: 26087496 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2015.2440768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The selection of suitable peripheral nerve electrodes for biomedical applications implies a trade-off between invasiveness and selectivity. The optimal design should provide the highest selectivity for targeting a large number of nerve fascicles with the least invasiveness and potential damage to the nerve. The transverse intrafascicular multichannel electrode (TIME), transversally inserted in the peripheral nerve, has been shown to be useful for the selective activation of subsets of axons, both at inter- and intra-fascicular levels, in the small sciatic nerve of the rat. In this study we assessed the capabilities of TIME for the selective recording of neural activity, considering the topographical selectivity and the distinction of neural signals corresponding to different sensory types. Topographical recording selectivity was proved by the differential recording of CNAPs from different subsets of nerve fibers, such as those innervating toes 2 and 4 of the hindpaw of the rat. Neural signals elicited by sensory stimuli applied to the rat paw were successfully recorded. Signal processing allowed distinguishing three different types of sensory stimuli such as tactile, proprioceptive and nociceptive ones with high performance. These findings further support the suitability of TIMEs for neuroprosthetic applications, by exploiting the transversal topographical structure of the peripheral nerves.
Collapse
|
49
|
Maciejasz P, Badia J, Boretius T, Andreu D, Stieglitz T, Jensen W, Navarro X, Guiraud D. Delaying discharge after the stimulus significantly decreases muscle activation thresholds with small impact on the selectivity: an in vivo study using TIME. Med Biol Eng Comput 2015; 53:371-9. [PMID: 25652078 DOI: 10.1007/s11517-015-1244-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The number of devices for electrical stimulation of nerve fibres implanted worldwide for medical applications is constantly increasing. Stimulation charge is one of the most important parameters of stimulation. High stimulation charge may cause tissue and electrode damage and also compromise the battery life of the electrical stimulators. Therefore, the objective of minimizing stimulation charge is an important issue. Delaying the second phase of biphasic stimulation waveform may decrease the charge required for fibre activation, but its impact on stimulation selectivity is not known. This information is particularly relevant when transverse intrafascicular multichannel electrode (TIME) is used, since it has been designed to provide for high selectivity. In this in vivo study, the rat sciatic nerve was electrically stimulated using monopolar and bipolar configurations with TIME. The results demonstrated that the inclusion of a 100-μs delay between the cathodic and the anodic phase of the stimulus allows to reduce charge requirements by around 30 %, while only slightly affecting stimulation selectivity. This study shows that adding a delay to the typical stimulation waveform significantly ([Formula: see text]) reduces the charge required for nerve fibres activation. Therefore, waveforms with the delayed discharge phase are more suitable for electrical stimulation of nerve fibres.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Maciejasz
- DEMAR Team, LIRMM, INRIA, University of Montpellier 2, Montpellier, France,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Cutrone A, Del Valle J, Santos D, Badia J, Filippeschi C, Micera S, Navarro X, Bossi S. A three-dimensional self-opening intraneural peripheral interface (SELINE). J Neural Eng 2015; 12:016016. [PMID: 25605565 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2560/12/1/016016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study we present the development and testing in a rat model of the self-opening neural interface (SELINE), a novel flexible peripheral neural interface. APPROACH This polyimide-based electrode has a three-dimensional structure that provides an anchorage system to the nerve and confers stability after implant. This geometry has been achieved by means of the plastic deformation of polyimide. Mechanical and electrochemical characterizations have been performed to prove the integrity of the electrode with very good results. Functionality of SELINEs for fascicular stimulation has been tested during in vivo acute experiments in the rat. Chronic implants were made to test the biocompatibility of the device. MAIN RESULTS Results showed that SELINEs significantly improve mechanical anchorage to the nerve. Stimulation stability is considerably enhanced compared to common planar transversal electrodes and stimulation selectivity is increased for some motor fascicles. Chronic experimental results showed that SELINEs neither produce changes in the fascicular organization of sciatic nerves nor signs of nerve degeneration. SIGNIFICANCE The presented three-dimensional electrode provides an effective anchorage system to the nervous tissue that can improve the stability of the implant for acute and chronic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Cutrone
- The Biorobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Viale Rinaldo Piaggio 34, I-56025, Pontedera (PI), Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|