Materials and technologies for soft implantable neuroprostheses

Lacour SP, Courtine G, Guck J (2016)

Publication Type: Journal article, Review article

Publication year: 2016

Journal

Nature Reviews Materials

Book Volume: 1

Article Number: 16063

Journal Issue: 10

DOI: 10.1038/natrevmats.2016.63

Abstract

Implantable neuroprostheses are engineered systems designed to restore or substitute function for individuals with neurological deficits or disabilities. These systems involve at least one uni- or bidirectional interface between a living neural tissue and a synthetic structure, through which information in the form of electrons, ions or photons flows. Despite a few notable exceptions, the clinical dissemination of implantable neuroprostheses remains limited, because many implants display inconsistent long-term stability and performance, and are ultimately rejected by the body. Intensive research is currently being conducted to untangle the complex interplay of failure mechanisms. In this Review, we emphasize the importance of minimizing the physical and mechanical mismatch between neural tissues and implantable interfaces. We explore possible materials solutions to design and manufacture neurointegrated prostheses, and outline their immense therapeutic potential.

Authors with CRIS profile

Jochen Guck

Involved external institutions

École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) CH Switzerland (CH) Technische Universität Dresden DE Germany (DE)

How to cite

APA:

Lacour, S.P., Courtine, G., & Guck, J. (2016). Materials and technologies for soft implantable neuroprostheses. Nature Reviews Materials, 1(10). https://doi.org/10.1038/natrevmats.2016.63

MLA:

Lacour, Stephanie P., Gregoire Courtine, and Jochen Guck. "Materials and technologies for soft implantable neuroprostheses." Nature Reviews Materials 1.10 (2016).

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