From in vitro to in vivo neural applications

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• Viviana Rincón Montes
• Thursday 06 October 2022, 16:00-17:00
• Cambridge Graphene Centre Seminar Room.

If you have a question about this talk, please contact Kirsty Shepherd.

Neural implants are electronic devices that interconnect with the central and peripheral nervous systems to read and modulate neural activity. Such neural interfaces are a powerful tool as they allow us to unveil and understand the complex networks behind different neuronal systems in our bodies. Likewise, they allow us to investigate the principles behind neural disorders, as well as to ideate and implement novel therapies that could induce/revert normal/abnormal activity in our nervous system. Nonetheless, the main challenge that neural implants face up to date is their functional integration with the body, their capability of minimizing implantation footprint and foreign body reactions, and their long-term stability. Hence, our approach comprises the development of stealth neurotechnology for seamless integration with the body and bidirectional communication for acknowledging and stimulating neuronal activity. To this end, designs and materials are customised to our target applications and the performance of our devices is characterised in vitro, ex vivo, and with cadaveric animal models to achieve acute and chronic in vivo applications. From a new generation of visual prostheses, such as the development of flexible intraretinal implants for visual restoration, to compliant intracortical/cortical implants and high-tech acupuncture needles to enhance microneurography in the study of chronic pain in peripheral nerves, our ultimate goal is to understand and restore lost neuronal functions in the body.

This talk is part of the Electrical Engineering series.

This talk is included in these lists:

• Cambridge Graphene Centre Seminar Room
• Electrical Engineering

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