Conception and characterization of flexible microelectrodes for implantable neuroprosthetic development

Brain-Computer Interfaces ensure a bidirectional connection between a patient and his environment. Using an implant in his brain, a patient suffering from severe motor deficiency can control external devices through the sole action of his cerebral activity. One of the major requirements for such application is to conceive an implant, also called neuroprosthesis, that is able to be implanted for long periods of time.Micro-nano-technology enable the fabrication of a neuroprosthesis that gives in the demands of such item: efficient, reliable and limiting body rejection mechanisms. To that aim, the implant is designed on a flexible substrate provided by a biocompatible polymer. Implant flexibility allows for better compliance with the brain tissues and insures a more intimate contact with the neurons while maintaining minimal inflammation. This implant is inserted in the brain using a bioresorbable support made of silk fibroin. First tests in vitro on culture cells, and in vivo on mice showed promising results in terms of biocompatibility and biostability in the short and medium term.