Novel microelectrode array architectures for high precision activity recordings of 3D in vitro neuronal populations

Sumário:

Brain research is now resorting to nanotechnology in order to create efficient devices for neuronal recording. Typical extracellular microelectrodes present sub-optimal electrical coupling between neurons and electrodes. The goal of this work is to present novel 3D architectures to maximize the interaction between electrodes and the neuronal network, and to demonstrate the viability of 3D in-depth neural recordings, providing a major breakthrough in the field. To this end, an electrical model of the neuron-electron coupling is to be developed and simulated, followed by the elaboration and implementation of a protocol for 3D electrode micro/nanofabrication. The demonstration of the fabricated device will be performed by growing a neuronal culture on the array and acquiring electrical measurements. The outcome of this project will enable neuronal data acquisition in 3D networks, greatly benefitting the study of neuronal systems and advancing our understanding of neuronal functional diseases.