CLC number:
On-line Access: 2024-08-27
Received: 2023-10-17
Revision Accepted: 2024-05-08
Crosschecked: 2024-02-02
Cited: 0
Clicked: 1032
Sara PIMENTA, João R. FREITAS, José H. CORREIA. Flexible neural probes: a review of the current advantages, drawbacks, and future demands[J]. Journal of Zhejiang University Science B, 2024, 25(2): 153-167.
@article{title="Flexible neural probes: a review of the current advantages, drawbacks, and future demands",
author="Sara PIMENTA, João R. FREITAS, José H. CORREIA",
journal="Journal of Zhejiang University Science B",
volume="25",
number="2",
pages="153-167",
year="2024",
publisher="Zhejiang University Press & Springer",
doi="10.1631/jzus.B2300337"
}
%0 Journal Article
%T Flexible neural probes: a review of the current advantages, drawbacks, and future demands
%A Sara PIMENTA
%A João R. FREITAS
%A José H. CORREIA
%J Journal of Zhejiang University SCIENCE B
%V 25
%N 2
%P 153-167
%@ 1673-1581
%D 2024
%I Zhejiang University Press & Springer
%DOI 10.1631/jzus.B2300337
TY - JOUR
T1 - Flexible neural probes: a review of the current advantages, drawbacks, and future demands
A1 - Sara PIMENTA
A1 - João R. FREITAS
A1 - José H. CORREIA
J0 - Journal of Zhejiang University Science B
VL - 25
IS - 2
SP - 153
EP - 167
%@ 1673-1581
Y1 - 2024
PB - Zhejiang University Press & Springer
ER -
DOI - 10.1631/jzus.B2300337
Abstract: Brain diseases affect millions of people and have a huge social and economic impact. The use of neural probes for studies in animals has been the main approach to increasing knowledge about neural network functioning. Ultimately, neuroscientists are trying to develop new and more effective therapeutic approaches to treating neurological disorders. The implementation of neural probes with multifunctionalities (electrical, optical, and fluidic interactions) has been increasing in the last few years, leading to the creation of devices with high temporal and spatial resolution. Increasing the applicability of, and elements integrated into, neural probes has also led to the necessity to create flexible interfaces, reducing neural tissue damage during probe implantation and increasing the quality of neural acquisition data. In this paper, we review the fabrication, characterization, and validation of several types of flexible neural probes, exploring the main advantages and drawbacks of these devices. Finally, future developments and applications are covered. Overall, this review aims to present the currently available flexible devices and future appropriate avenues for development as possible guidance for future engineered devices.
[1]AhmedZ, ReddyJW, MalekoshoaraieMH, et al., 2021. Flexible optoelectric neural interfaces. Curr Opin Biotechnol, 72:121-130.
[2]AltunaA, de la PridaLM, BellistriE, et al., 2012. SU-8 based microprobes with integrated planar electrodes for enhanced neural depth recording. Biosens Bioelectron, 37(1):1-5.
[3]AltunaA, BellistriE, CidE, et al., 2013. SU-8 based microprobes for simultaneous neural depth recording and drug delivery in the brain. Lab Chip, 13(7):1422.
[4]BöhlerC, VomeroM, SoulaM, et al., 2023. Multilayer arrays for neurotechnology applications (MANTA): chronically stable thin-film intracortical implants. Adv Sci, 10(14):2207576.
[5]BoulogeorgosAAA, TrevlakisSE, ChatzidiamantisND, 2021. Optical wireless communications for in-body and transderm
[6]al biomedical applications. IEEE Commun Mag, 59(1):119-125.
[7]CastagnolaV, DescampsE, LecestreA, et al., 2015. Parylene-based flexible neural probes with PEDOT coated surface for brain stimulation and recording. Biosens Bioelectron, 67:450-457.
[8]CecchettoC, VassanelliS, KuhnB, 2021. Simultaneous two-photon voltage or calcium imaging and multi-channel local field potential recordings in barrel cortex of awake and anesthetized mice. Front Neurosci, 15:741279.
[9]ChapelleF, MancietL, PereiraB, et al., 2021. Early deformation of deep brain stimulation electrodes following surgical implantation: intracranial, brain, and electrode mechanics. Front Bioeng Biotechnol, 9:657875.
[10]ChikGKK, XiaoN, JiXD, et al., 2022. Flexible multichannel neural probe developed by electropolymerization for localized stimulation and sensing. Adv Mater Technol, 7(8):2200143.
[11]ChoY, ParkS, LeeJ, et al., 2021. Emerging materials and technologies with applications in flexible neural implants: a comprehensive review of current issues with neural devices. Adv Mater, 33(47):2005786.
[12]ChoiJR, KimSM, RyuRH, et al., 2018. Implantable neural probes for brain-machine interfaces? Current developments and future prospects. Exp Neurobiol, 27(6):453-471.
[13]ChungJE, JooHR, FanJL, et al., 2019. High-density, long-lasting, and multi-region electrophysiological recordings using polymer electrode arrays. Neuron, 101(1):21-31.e5.
[14]CointeC, LabordeA, NowakLG, et al., 2022. Scalable batch fabrication of ultrathin flexible neural probes using a bioresorbable silk layer. Microsyst Nanoeng, 8:21.
[15]DongXW, 2018. Current strategies for brain drug delivery. Theranostics, 8(6):1481-1493.
[16]DoughertyDD, 2018. Deep brain stimulation. Psychiat Clin North Am, 41(3):385-394.
[17]FernándezLJ, AltunaA, TijeroM, et al., 2009. Study of functional viability of SU-8-based microneedles for neural applications. J Micromech Microeng, 19(2):025007.
[18]FreitasJR, PimentaS, RibeiroJF, et al., 2021. Simulation, fabrication and morphological characterization of a PDMS microlens for light collimation on optrodes. Optik, 227:166098.
[19]FreitasJR, PimentaS, SantosDJ, et al., 2022. Flexible neural probe fabrication enhanced with a low-temperature cured polyimide and platinum electrodeposition. Sensors, 22(24):9674.
[20]GoncalvesS, PalhaJ, FernandesH, et al., 2018. LED optrode with integrated temperature sensing for optogenetics. Micromachines, 9(9):473.
[21]GoncalvesSB, RibeiroJF, SilvaAF, et al., 2017. Design and manufacturing challenges of optogenetic neural interfaces: a review. J Neural Eng, 14(4):041001.
[22]GuptaP, ShindeA, IllathK, et al., 2022. Microfluidic platforms for single neuron analysis. Mater Today Bio, 13:100222.
[23]HegedüsN, BalázsiC, KolonitsT, et al., 2022. Investigation of the RF sputtering process and the properties of deposited silicon oxynitride layers under varying reactive gas conditions. Materials, 15(18):6313.
[24]JendritzaP, KleinFJ, FriesP, 2023. Multi-area recordings and optogenetics in the awake, behaving marmoset. Nat Commun, 14:577.
[25]JonesKE, CampbellPK, NormannRA, 1992. A glass/silicon composite intracortical electrode array. Ann Biomed Eng, 20(4):423-437.
[26]Jurado-GonzálezJA, Lizárraga-MedinaEG, VazquezJ, et al., 2023. TiO2-x films as a prospective material for slab waveguides prepared by atomic layer deposition. Opt Laser Technol, 158:108880.
[27]KampasiK, AlamedaJ, SahotaS, et al., 2020. Design and microfabrication strategies for thin-film, flexible optical neural implant. 42nd Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine & Biology Society, p.4314-4317.
[28]KhannaA, SubramanianAZ, HäyrinenM, et al., 2014. Impact of ALD grown passivation layers on silicon nitride based integrated optic devices for very-near-infrared wavelengths. Opt Express, 22(5):5684.
[29]KimEGR, TuH, LuoH, et al., 2015. 3D silicon neural probe with integrated optical fibers for optogenetic modulation. Lab Chip, 15(14):2939-2949.
[30]KimTH, SchnitzerMJ, 2022. Fluorescence imaging of large-scale neural ensemble dynamics. Cell, 185(1):9-41.
[31]KimTI, McCallJG, JungYH, et al., 2013. Injectable, cellular-scale optoelectronics with applications for wireless optogenetics. Science, 340(6129):211-216.
[32]KuoJTW, KimBJ, HaraSA, et al., 2013. Novel flexible Parylene neural probe with 3D sheath structure for enhancing tissue integration. Lab Chip, 13(4):554-561.
[33]LanzioV, WestM, KoshelevA, et al., 2018. High-density electrical and optical probes for neural readout and light focusing in deep brain tissue. J Micro/Nanolith MEMS MOEMS, 17(2):1.
[34]LecomteA, DescampsE, BergaudC, 2018. A review on mech
[35]anical considerations for chronically-implanted neural probes. J Neural Eng, 15(3):031001.
[36]LiLZ, JiangCQ, LiLM, 2022. Hierarchical platinum‒iridium neural electrodes structured by femtosecond laser for superwicking interface and superior charge storage capacity. Bio-Des Manuf, 5:163-173.
[37]LuCT, ZhaoYZ, WongHL, et al., 2014. Current approaches to enhance CNS delivery of drugs across the brain barriers. Int J Nanomed, 9(1):2241-2257.
[38]LuanL, WeiXL, ZhaoZT, et al., 2017. Ultraflexible nanoelectronic probes form reliable, glial scar‒free neural integration. Sci Adv, 3(2):e1601966.
[39]LuoJH, XueN, ChenJM, 2022. A review: research progress of neural probes for brain research and brain‒computer interface. Biosensors, 12(12):1167.
[40]MaL, LiYT, WuYT, et al., 2020. 3D bioprinted hyaluronic acid-based cell-laden scaffold for brain microenvironment simulation. Bio-Des Manuf, 3(3):164-174.
[41]MaioloL, PoleseD, ConvertinoA, 2019. The rise of flexible electronics in neuroscience, from materials selection to in vitro and in vivo applications. Adv Phys X, 4(1):1664319.
[42]McAlindenN, MassoubreD, RichardsonE, et al., 2013. Thermal and optical characterization of micro-LED probes for in vivo optogenetic neural stimulation. Opt Lett, 38(6):992.
[43]McAlindenN, GuED, DawsonMD, et al., 2015. Optogenetic activation of neocortical neurons in vivo with a sapphire-based micro-scale LED probe. Front Neural Circ, 9:25.
[44]McGlynnE, NabaeiV, RenE, et al., 2021. The future of neuroscience: flexible and wireless implantable neural electronics. Adv Sci, 8(10):2002693.
[45]MetzS, BertschA, BertrandD, et al., 2004. Flexible polyimide probes with microelectrodes and embedded microfluidic channels for simultaneous drug delivery and multi-channel monitoring of bioelectric activity. Biosens Bioelectron, 19(10):1309-1318.
[46]MohammadiM, ZolfagharianA, BodaghiM, et al., 2022. 4D printing of soft orthoses for tremor suppression. Bio-Des Manuf, 5(4):786-807.
[47]MoreauxLC, YatsenkoD, SacherWD, et al., 2020. Integrated neurophotonics: toward dense volumetric interrogation of brain circuit activity—at depth and in real time. Neuron, 108(1):66-92.
[48]NaK, SperryZJ, LuJA, et al., 2020. Novel diamond shuttle to deliver flexible neural probe with reduced tissue compression. Microsyst Nanoeng, 6:37.
[49]NguyenJK, ParkDJ, SkousenJL, et al., 2014. Mechanically-compliant intracortical implants reduce the neuroinflammatory response. J Neural Eng, 11(5):056014.
[50]PardridgeWM, 2012. Drug transport across the blood‒brain barrier. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab, 32(11):1959-1972.
[51]PimentaS, PereiraJP, GomesNM, et al., 2018a. High-selectivity neural probe based on a Fabry‒Perot optical filter and a CMOS silicon photodiodes array at visible wavelengths. J Biomed Opt, 23(10):1.
[52]PimentaS, RibeiroJF, GoncalvesSB, et al., 2018b. SU-8 based waveguide for optrodes. Proceedings, 2(13):814.
[53]PimentaS, RodriguesJA, MachadoF, et al., 2021. Double-layer flexible neural probe with closely spaced electrodes for high-density in vivo brain recordings. Front Neurosci, 15:663174.
[54]PisanelloF, SileoL, de VittorioM, 2016. Micro- and nanotechnologies for optical neural interfaces. Front Neurosci, 10:70.
[55]PothofF, BoniniL, LanzilottoM, et al., 2016. Chronic neural probe for simultaneous recording of single-unit, multi-unit, and local field potential activity from multiple brain sites. J Neural Eng, 13(4):046006.
[56]ReddyJW, KimukinI, StewartLT, et al., 2019. High density, double-sided, flexible optoelectronic neural probes with embedded μLEDs. Front Neurosci, 13:745.
[57]RivnayJ, WangHL, FennoL, et al., 2017. Next-generation probes, particles, and proteins for neural interfacing. Sci Adv, 3(6):e1601649.
[58]RochaRP, MacielMJ, GomesJM, et al., 2014. Fabricating microlenses on photodiodes to increase the light-current conversion efficiency. IEEE Sens J, 14(5):1343-1344.
[59]RodgerD, FongA, LiW, et al., 2008. Flexible parylene-based multielectrode array technology for high-density neural stimulation and recording. Sens Actuat B Chem, 132(2):449-460.
[60]RodriguesJA, PimentaS, PereiraJP, et al., 2021. Low-cost silicon neural probe: fabrication, electrochemical characterization and in vivo validation. Microsyst Technol, 27:37-46.
[61]RouschePJ, PellinenDS, PivinDP, et al., 2001. Flexible polyimide-based intracortical electrode arrays with bioactive capability. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng, 48(3):361-371.
[62]SacherWD, ChenFD, Moradi-ChamehH, et al., 2021. Implantable photonic neural probes for light-sheet fluorescence brain imaging. Neurophotonics, 8(2):025003.
[63]SancataldoG, SilvestriL, Allegra MascaroAL, et al., 2019. Advanced fluorescence microscopy for in vivo imaging of neuronal activity. Optica, 6(6):758.
[64]ShengH, WangXM, KongN, et al., 2019. Neural interfaces by hydrogels. Extreme Mech Lett, 30:100510.
[65]ShoffstallA, EckerM, DandaV, et al., 2018. Characterization of the neuroinflammatory response to thiol-ene shape memory polymer coated intracortical microelectrodes. Micromachines, 9(10):486.
[66]SimonDM, CharkhkarH, St. John C, et al., 2017. Design and demonstration of an intracortical probe technology with tunable modulus. J Biomed Mater Res, 105(1):159-168.
[67]TakeuchiS, SuzukiT, MabuchiK, et al., 2004. 3D flexible multichannel neural probe array. J Micromech Microeng, 14:104-107.
[68]TakeuchiS, ZieglerD, YoshidaY, et al., 2005. Parylene flexible neural probes integrated with microfluidic channels. Lab Chip, 5(5):519.
[69]TchoeY, BourhisAM, ClearyDR, et al., 2022. Human brain mapping with multithousand-channel PtNRGrids resolves spatiotemporal dynamics. Sci Transl Med, 14(628):eabj1441.
[70]TestaG, HuangYJ, ZeniL, et al., 2010. Liquid core ARROW waveguides by atomic layer deposition. IEEE Photon Technol Lett, 22(9):616-618.
[71]ThakorJ, AhadianS, NiakanA, et al., 2020. Engineered hydrogels for brain tumor culture and therapy. Bio-Des Manuf, 3(3):203-226.
[72]TsuchiyaR, OyamadaR, FukushimaT, et al., 2022. Low-loss hydrogen-free SiNx optical waveguide deposited by reactive sputtering on a bulk Si platform. IEEE J Sel Top Quant Electron, 28(3):1-9.
[73]VilaM, CáceresD, PrietoC, 2003. Mechanical properties of sputtered silicon nitride thin films. J Appl Phys, 94(12):7868-7873.
[74]VomeroM, CiarpellaF, ZucchiniE, et al., 2022. On the longevity of flexible neural interfaces: establishing biostability of polyimide-based intracortical implants. Biomaterials, 281:121372.
[75]WangMH, FanY, LiLL, et al., 2022. Flexible neural probes with optical artifact-suppressing modification and biofriendly polypeptide coating. Micromachines, 13(2):199.
[76]WangXM, WangMQ, ShengH, et al., 2022. Subdural neural interfaces for long-term electrical recording, optical micro
[77]scopy and magnetic resonance imaging. Biomaterials, 281:121352.
[78]WeltmanA, YooJ, MengE, 2016. Flexible, penetrating brain probes enabled by advances in polymer microfabrication. Micromachines, 7(10):180.
[79]WenXM, 2018. Multifunctional Neural Probes for Electrochemical Sensing, Chemical Delivery and Optical Stimulation. PhD Dissemination, University of California, USA.
[80]WenXM, WangB, HuangS, et al., 2019. Flexible, multifunctional neural probe with liquid metal enabled, ultra-large tunable stiffness for deep-brain chemical sensing and agent delivery. Biosens Bioelectron, 131:37-45.
[81]WiseKD, AngellJB, StarrA, 1970. An integrated-circuit approach to extracellular microelectrodes. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng, BME-17(3):238-247.
[82]WuF, StarkE, ImM, et al., 2013. An implantable neural probe with monolithically integrated dielectric waveguide and recording electrodes for optogenetics applications. J Neural Eng, 10(5):056012.
[83]WuF, StarkE, KuPC, et al., 2015. Monolithically integrated μLEDs on silicon neural probes for high-resolution optogenetic studies in behaving animals. Neuron, 88(6):1136-1148.
[84]XiangZL, YenSC, XueN, et al., 2014. Ultra-thin flexible polyimide neural probe embedded in a dissolvable maltose-coated microneedle. J Micromech Microeng, 24(6):065015.
[85]YuF, HunzikerW, ChoudhuryD, 2019. Engineering microfluidic organoid-on-a-chip platforms. Micromachines, 10(3):165.
[86]ZátonyiA, OrbánG, ModiR, et al., 2019. A softening laminar electrode for recording single unit activity from the rat hippocampus. Sci Rep, 9:2321.
[87]ZhaoHQ, LiuRP, ZhangHL, et al., 2022. Research progress on the flexibility of an implantable neural microelectrode. Micromachines, 13(3):386.
[88]ZhaoYW, WangK, LiSW, et al., 2018. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based flexible optical electrodes with conductive composite hydrogels integrated probe for optogenetics. J Biomed Nanotechnol, 14(6):1099-1106.
[89]ZhaoZG, KimE, LuoH, et al., 2018. Flexible deep brain neural probes based on a parylene tube structure. J Micromech Microeng, 28:015012.
[90]ZhouY, GuC, LiangJZ, et al., 2022. A silk-based self-adaptive flexible opto-electro neural probe. Microsyst Nanoeng, 8:118.
Open peer comments: Debate/Discuss/Question/Opinion
<1>