Project

Hybrid electrochemical biosensing neural probe for closed-loop interrogation of epileptic activity.

Code
G094525N
Duration
01 January 2025 → 31 December 2028
Funding
Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO)
Promotor-spokesperson
Research disciplines
  • Social sciences
    • Neuropsychology
  • Engineering and technology
    • Semiconductor devices, nanoelectronics and technology
    • Molecular and organic electronics
    • Biosensors
Keywords
Memristive Biosensors Organic Electronics Epilepsy
 
Project description

Epilepsy affects a significant portion of the global population, with electrical neural interfaces playing a crucial role in its diagnosis and treatment. However, challenges remain in interpreting electrical signals and understanding their causal relationship with chemical processes. Adenosine, known for its inhibitory effects on neurotransmission, is implicated in seizure activity regulation. Monitoring adenosine levels poses difficulties due to their low concentrations and the limitations of current techniques. Meanwhile, existing electrical interfaces lack the necessary properties for safe and efficient long-term tissue contact, leading to low spatial resolution and signal quality. An integrated electrochemical neural probe capable of real-time sensing of adenosine levels alongside high-density electrical recording is needed to advance understanding and control of neurological conditions like epilepsy. Such a probe would bridge the gap between chemical changes and electrical patterns in neural activity, facilitating more effective modulation of neurological conditions. The project aims to develop an implantable neural probe utilizing memristive nanoscale electrochemical aptasensors and organic electrodes, for recording both electrographic seizures and adenosine levels simultaneously and reduce hyperexcitability. The system will automate data streaming from all electrodes and offer customized stimulation and will be validated through both in vitro and in vivo experiments.