Multi-layered micro-channel electrode array with regenerative selectivity

摘要

A scaffold defines a plurality of channels, into which axons of a severed nerve may regenerate, such as after limb amputation. Each channel includes a corresponding electrode. Regenerating axons may make electrical contact with the electrodes. Each channel is at least partially filled with a growth factor selected to selectively stimulate axon regeneration. Adjacent channels may include different growth factors, so as to attract different types of axons, for example efferent axons and afferent axons, to each of the adjacent channels. The growth factors may be distributed in the channels so as to present a gradient across a geometry of each channel. This gradient provides enhanced differentiated geometric guidance to the axons, thereby yielding better specificity, in terms of which axons regenerate into which channels. Topography, such as geometric patterns in walls, ceilings and floors of the channels, may also be used to selectively encourage axon regeneration into the channels.

主权项

1. An electrode array, comprising:
(1) a bio-compatible dielectric scaffold defining a plurality of openings and a plurality of channels therein, wherein each channel:
(a) occupies a three-dimensional volume extending into the scaffold from a respective opening of the plurality of openings;(b) contains an electrode attached to the scaffold and electrically exposed to the three-dimensional volume of the channel; and(c) contains a bio-compatible gel disposed therein; (2) a first growth factor disposed in the gel disposed in a first at least one of the plurality of channels, wherein the first growth factor is selected to preferentially promote growth of a first type of nerve fiber over a second type of nerve fiber; and (3) a second growth factor disposed in the gel disposed in a second at least one of the plurality of channels, different than the first at least one of the plurality of channels, wherein the second growth factor is selected to preferentially promote growth of the second type of nerve fiber over the first type of nerve fiber; wherein: the first growth factor is disposed in the gel disposed in the first at least one of the plurality of channels so as to present a first gradient of effectiveness of the first growth factor across the opening of the first at least one of the plurality of channels; the second growth factor is disposed in the gel disposed in the second at least one of the plurality of channels so as to present a second gradient of effectiveness of the second growth factor across the opening of the second at least one of the plurality of channels; the first gradient increases along a direction away from the opening of the second at least one of the plurality of channels; and the second gradient increases along a direction away from the opening of the first at least one of the plurality of channels.