Neural Electrodes Based on 3D Organic Electroactive Microfibers

Abstract

Neural electrodes used for in vivo biomedical applications (e.g., prostheses, bionic implants) result in glial invasion, leading to the formation of a nonexcitable scar that increases the distance between neurons and electrode and increases the resistance to current flow. The result is progressive deterioration in the performance of stimulation or recording of neural activity and inevitable device failure. Also, electrodes with a 2D surface have a limited proximity to neurons. In the present study, a macroporous and fibrous 3D neural electrode is developed using poly-L-lactic acid fibrous membranes imbued with electroactive properties via a coating of the conductive polymer poly(3,4-ethylene..