Recent development of implantable and flexible nerve electrodes

Abstract

Implantable electrical devices offer a variety of potential diagnostic options and treatments in different medical fields. Especially in the absence of specific drugs, the implantable nerve electrodes (INEs) are one of the main treatments for neurological diseases such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, etc. INEs are helpful in studying and regulating nervous system via recording nerve electrical signals or stimulating nerve tissue, but the mechanical mismatch between rigid electrode and soft biological tissue is a critical challenge for long-term implantation. The advances in micromachining technologies and materials have greatly promoted the development of INEs, such as enhanced biocompatibility, reduced foreign body reactions, and structural innovation. In particular, the mechanical performances of flexible implantable electrode and soft biological tissue matched better with less tissue damage. In this review, the implantable flexible nerve electrodes (IFNEs) based on functionalized substrates, intelligent electrodes, and innovative structures are elaborated and discussed. We summarized their various applications in neural prosthesis and neural signal recording. We also discussed the questions and possible methods for developing future IFNEs in the perspective.