Wide bandgap semiconductor nanomembranes as a long-term biointerface for ﬂexible, implanted neuromodulator

PNAS, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2203287119 · Published: August 8, 2022

Simple Explanation

This research introduces a new type of flexible neural electrode using silicon carbide (SiC) nanomembranes and thermal oxide thin films. These electrodes are designed to be implanted and last for a long time, offering stable electrical properties in the body. The SiC nanomembranes are created using a process that can be scaled up for mass production. Experiments show that the SiC/silicon dioxide (SiO2) system is very stable and could potentially last for decades. The study also demonstrated that the material system can be used for nerve stimulation in animals, producing muscle responses similar to standard stimulation devices. This opens up possibilities for new neuroscience research and therapies based on neural stimulation.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Animal model (rat)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The SiC/SiO2 bioelectronic system exhibits excellent stability and can potentially last for several decades with well-maintained electronic properties in biofluid environments.
2
The proposed material system is capable of peripheral nerve stimulation in an animal model, showing muscle contraction responses comparable to those of a standard non-implanted nerve stimulation device.
3
The SiC electrode displayed a significantly higher (P = 0.0008) amplitude than the control.

Research Summary

The study introduces a novel bioelectronic platform incorporating silicon carbide (SiC) nanomembranes and silicon dioxide (SiO2) biobarriers for long-term bioimplanted applications, fabricated using MEMS-compatible processes. Experimental results demonstrate the excellent mechanical flexibility of the proposed electronic platform and its long-term stability in biofluid environments, indicating its suitability for decades-long implantation. In vivo animal studies provide proof of concept, showing that the SiC/SiO2 system can effectively stimulate peripheral nerves, leading to muscle contraction and suggesting potential for long-term, multimodal, flexible bioelectronics for neuromodulation applications.

Practical Implications

Long-term Implantable Devices

The SiC/SiO2 system can enable the development of long-lasting implantable bioelectronic devices for chronic neurological disorders.

Advanced Neuromodulation Therapies

The flexible SiC electrodes offer a promising platform for advanced neuromodulation therapies, including peripheral nerve stimulation and vagal modulations.

Multimodal Biological Sensing

The SiC/SiO2 electrodes can be utilized for real-time monitoring of multivariable biophysical parameters, providing a powerful tool for biomedical implanted applications, such as tissue temperature and contact sensing.

Study Limitations

1
High CVD temperature may affect the integration of other functional components.
2
Movement of the recording electrodes during supramaximal stimulation in nerve-conduction studies.
3
The lifetime of the device mainly depends on that of the SiO2 insulation layer

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