Abstract
Objective: Peripheral neural interface (PNI) with a stable integration of synthetic elements with neural tissue is key for successfulneuro-prosthetic applications. An inevitable phenomenon of reactive fibrosis is a primary hurdle for long term functionality of PNIs. This proof-of-concept study aimed to fabricate and test a novel, stable PNI that harnesses fibro-axonal outgrowth at the nerve end and includes fibrosis in the design. Methods: Two non-human primates were implanted with Substrate-guided, Tissue-Electrode Encapsulation and Integration (STEER) PNIs. The implant included a 3D printed guide that strove to steer the regrowing nerve towards encapsulation of the electrodes into a fibro-axonal tissue. After four months from implantation, we performed electrophysiological measurements to test STEER's functionality and examined the macro and micro- morphology of the outgrowth tissue. Results: We observed a highly structured fibro-axonal composite within the STEER PNI. A conduction of intracranially generated action potentials was successfully recorded across the neural interface. Immunohistology demonstrated uniquely configured laminae of myelinated axons encasing the implant. Conclusion: STEER PNI reconfigured the structure of the fibro-axonal tissue and facilitated long-term functionality and stability of the neural interface. Significance: The results point to the feasibility of our concept for creating a stable PNI with long-term electrophysiologic functionality by using simple design and materials.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 1085-1092 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering |
Volume | 69 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Mar 1 2022 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- 3D printing
- Coaptation
- Nerve guidance
- Neural interface
- Neuroprosthesis
- Vero Clear
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Biomedical Engineering