512 Mapping High Gamma Neural Signals in Hand Primary Somatosensory Cortex Using a Multi-Thousand Channel Platinum Nanorod Microelectrode Grid

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Neurological deficits secondary to pathologies such as stroke, tumor, trauma, and neurodegeneration lead to enduring disability for many patients. Therefore, the development of neurorestorative technologies utilizing brain computer interfaces (BCIs) is an important goal in applied neuroscience. The high-gamma electrocorticographic (ECoG) neural signals from surgically implanted brain electrodes can be used as an indirect proxy for neuronal spiking activity and local neuronal output, which has translated into an effective control signal for BCIs. Direct electrical stimulation (DES) of primary somatosensory cortex has been used to provide sensory feedback in bi-directional sensorimotor BCIs (BBCIs). METHODS: During an awake craniotomy for tumor resection, a PtNRGrid was placed over primary hand somatosensory cortex while touches were applied to the ipsilateral and contralateral hand and arm. RESULTS: Here, we demonstrate the mapping of the high gamma signal in single digit and individual carpal distribution. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first analysis of high gamma signal in human hand primary somatosensory cortex utilizing PtNRGrids.