Study finds drug-loaded hydrogel microelectrode arrays significantly improve performance of brain-computer interfaces

A research group led by Professor Cai Xinxia of the Institute of Aerospace Information (AIR), Chinese Academy of Sciences, has developed a new drug-loaded hydrogel-coated microelectrode array (MEA) that enables long-term, high-quality detection. Nerve activity. The study was published in the journal Biosensors and Bioelectronics.

Traditional MEAs often cause inflammation in the brain due to mechanical differences between the hard electrode and soft brain tissue. This can lead to the formation of a glial scar, which affects electrode stability and signal quality. This issue limits the ability of these devices to be used for long-term neurological monitoring and treatment of neurological disorders.

To solve this problem, researchers designed a hydrogel coating using calcium alginate and chitosan. It contains an anti-inflammatory drug called dexamethasone sodium phosphate. We then integrated various conductive nanomaterials to optimize the MEA and improve its electrical performance.

The hydrogel coating makes the electrode more compatible with brain tissue, actively releases drugs, reduces inflammation, and increases electrode stability and longevity.

Animal experiments showed that the modified MEAs exhibited superior performance. Improved electrical properties and long-term reliability. This electrode was able to detect the important neurotransmitter dopamine with high sensitivity.

Improved MEA techniques have enabled detailed recordings of neural activity, revealing differences in how neurons behave in different states, such as during anesthesia and wakefulness.

This new drug-loaded hydrogel acts as a highly effective nanobiointerface and drug delivery carrier and shows great potential for long-term neuromonitoring. This is expected to enhance the performance and acceptance of brain-computer interface devices in medical settings, and has promise for neuroscience research and the development of new treatments for neurological diseases.