Liquid Metal-Based Electrode Array for Neural Signal Recording

Biocompatible Electrical and Optical Interfaces for Implantable Sensors and Devices

Implantable bioelectronics hold tremendous potential in the field of healthcare, yet the performance of these systems heavily relies on the interfaces between artificial machines and living tissues. In this paper, we discuss the recent developments of tethered interfaces, as well as those of non-tethered interfaces. Among them, systems that study neural activity receive significant attention due to their innovative developments and high relevance in contemporary research, but other functional types of interface systems are also explored to provide a comprehensive overview of the field. We also analyze the key considerations, including perforation site selection, fixing strategies, long-term retention, and wireless communication, highlighting the challenges and opportunities with stable, effective, and biocompatible interfaces. Furthermore, we propose a primitive model of biocompatible electrical and optical interfaces for implantable systems, which simultaneously possesses biocompatibility, stability, and convenience. Finally, we point out the future directions of interfacing strategies.

Advances in electrode interface materials and modification technologies for brain-computer interfaces

Recent advances in neuroelectrode interface materials and modification technologies are reviewed. Brain-computer interface is the new method of human-computer interaction, which not only can realise the exchange of information between the human brain and external devices, but also provides a brand-new means for the diagnosis and treatment of brain-related diseases. The neural electrode interface part of brain-computer interface is an important area for electrical, optical and chemical signal transmission between brain tissue system and external electronic devices, which determines the performance of brain-computer interface. In order to solve the problems of insufficient flexibility, insufficient signal recognition ability and insufficient biocompatibility of traditional rigid electrodes, researchers have carried out extensive studies on the neuroelectrode interface in terms of materials and modification techniques. This paper introduces the biological reactions that occur in neuroelectrodes after implantation into brain tissue and the decisive role of the electrode interface for electrode function. Following this, the latest research progress on neuroelectrode materials and interface materials is reviewed from the aspects of neuroelectrode materials and modification technologies, firstly taking materials as a clue, and then focusing on the preparation process of neuroelectrode coatings and the design scheme of functionalised structures.

Liquid Metal-Based Flexible Bioelectrodes for Management of In-Stent-Restenosis: Potential Application

Although vascular stents have been widely used in clinical practice, there is still a risk of in-stent restenosis after their implantation. Combining conventional vascular stents with liquid metal-based electrodes with impedance detection, irreversible electroporation, and blood pressure detection provides a new direction to completely solve the restenosis problem. Compared with conventional rigid electrodes, liquid metal-based electrodes combine high conductivity and stretchability, and are more compliant with the implantation process of vascular stents and remain in the vasculature for a long period of time. This perspective reviews the types and development of conventional vascular stents and proposes a novel stent that integrates liquid metal-based electrodes on conventional vascular stents. This vascular stent has three major functions of prediction, detection and treatment, and is expected to be a new generation of cardiovascular implant with intelligent sensing and real-time monitoring.