Array of Microelectrodes for Interfacing to Neurons within Fascicles

摘要

Methods and apparatus are disclosed for interfacing with nerve fibers, such as axons. Embodiments provide multiple micro-channels, into which individual fascicles of a nerve may be placed, one fascicle per micro-channel. Each micro-channel has an associated set of micro-wire electrodes that penetrate the fascicle in the micro-channel. The micro-wire electrodes are thinner than prior art photolithographed micro-electrode arrays. Consequently, more micro-wire electrodes may interface with a single fascicle, and each micro-wire electrode interfaces with fewer axons, than in the prior art. Multiple rows of micro-channels may be stacked to construct two-dimensional arrays of micro-channels. These embodiments thereby facilitate finer motor control in prosthetic devices, and more granular sensory feedback from prosthetic devices to central nervous systems, than is achievable in the prior art.

主权项

1. An electrode array, comprising:
a substrate comprising a bio-compatible dielectric and at least one nerve micro-channel, each nerve micro-channel comprising:
a trench defined by the substrate, the trench being at most about 2.5 cm wide;a lid associated with the trench, comprising a bio-compatible dielectric and configured to be attachable to the substrate so as to close the trench at least along at least a portion of the trench's length such that, when the lid closes the trench, the substrate and the lid collectively define a respective nerve capture volume within the trench; andat least three micro-wire electrodes, each micro-wire electrode protruding from at least one of the substrate defining the trench and the lid associated with the trench and having a diameter of at most about 25 μm substantially along its protrusion.