Researchers at Rice University in the United States have introduced a groundbreaking device that utilizes fast-moving liquids to insert flexible, conductive carbon nanotube fibers into the brain. This innovative microfluidic technology enables the precise placement of electrodes without damaging delicate neural tissue. The method is expected to significantly enhance the accuracy and reliability of neuronal signal recording, offering new hope for patients suffering from conditions like epilepsy and other neurological disorders.
Unlike traditional techniques that rely on rigid, degradable sheaths which can harm sensitive brain tissue, this new approach uses the force of flowing liquid to gently guide the ultra-thin fibers into place. In lab tests and animal models, the device demonstrated its ability to direct viscous fluid around the fiber electrode, allowing it to pass through a small opening into the brain with minimal resistance. Because the tension is evenly distributed, the fiber remains straight and does not bend, while the liquid is prevented from entering the brain through the hole.
The carbon nanotube fibers are capable of conducting electricity in all directions, but the team developed a specialized coating technique to insulate them, ensuring they only interact with neurons at their tips. This coating also helps maintain the fiber’s diameter between 15 and 30 microns—far thinner than a human hair—making them ideal for long-term use within the brain.
Experts believe this technology could eventually allow for the placement of multiple microelectrodes in dense arrays, improving the safety and efficiency of brain implants. By causing less trauma during insertion, more electrodes can be positioned in specific brain regions, opening up new possibilities for understanding cognitive processes and enabling direct brain-computer interfaces. This development marks a major step forward in neurotechnology, with potential applications ranging from medical treatment to advanced prosthetics and beyond.
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