Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a groundbreaking new type of electrode that could revolutionize brain monitoring for patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy. Here's how it works:
1. **Flexible & Strong Electrode Design**
- Thin strips made from multiple layers of polymer materials
- Electrically conductive layers using gold, chromium, platinum & silver
- Special holes allow precise interaction with small number of neurons
2. **High Flexibility & Strength**
- Structures are highly flexible and strong
- Can be printed up to 15 cm long using semiconductor industry methods
3. **Deep Brain Implantation**
- Implanted deep in brain during tumor removal surgeries on two volunteers
- Successfully reads signals from large number of single neurons
4. **Wireless Monitoring Goal by 2026**
- Aim to enable wireless monitoring outside hospitals by 2026
5. **Preserving Lives & Eliminating Incurable Diseases**
- Potential to greatly improve patient care and outcomes
- Could help eliminate incurable diseases threatening humanity
The development and testing of these revolutionary electrodes marks an exciting step forward in non-invasive brain monitoring technology for epilepsy patients – ultimately preserving lives and addressing some our most pressing medical challenges.