Self-organization of "fibro-axonal" composite tissue around unmodified metallic micro-electrodes can form a functioning interface with a peripheral nerve: A new direction for creating long-term neural interfaces

Amitabha Lahiri, Ignacio Martinez Delgado, Swathi Sheshadri, Kian Ann Ng, Sudip Nag, Shih Cheng Yen, Nitish V. Thakor

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Introduction: A long-term peripheral neural interface is an area of intense research. The use of electrode interfaces is limited by the biological response to the electrode material. Methods: We created an electrode construct to harbor the rat sciatic nerve with interposition of autogenous adipose tissue between the nerve and the electrode. The construct was implanted for 10 weeks. Results: Immunohistochemistry showed a unique laminar pattern of axonal growth layered between fibro-collagenous tissue, forming a physical interface with the tungsten micro-electrode. Action potentials transmitted across the intrerface showed mean conduction velocities varying between 6.99±2.46 and 20.14±4 m/s. Conclusions: We have demonstrated the feasibility of a novel peripheral nerve interface through modulation of normal biologic phenomena. It has potential applications as a chronic implantable neural interface.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)789-796
Number of pages8
JournalMuscle and Nerve
Volume53
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - May 1 2016
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Bionic
  • Injury
  • Interface
  • Nerve
  • Prosthesis

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Physiology
  • Clinical Neurology
  • Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
  • Physiology (medical)

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