3D Microelectrode Array for Neural Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current preclinical models, especially for neurological applications, have limited predictivity for translating success to clinical trials due to their inability to provide relevant in vivo information, leading to high drug failure rates and lengthy and costly development processes.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional microelectrode array designed for microengineered physiological systems, comprising a chip with two-dimensional and three-dimensional electrodes, capable of real-time detection of bioelectrical signals, is configured to mimic neural architecture and interface with neural cells, allowing for the measurement of compound action potentials and conduction velocity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional preclinical models (animal or basic in vitro) are used, then throughput is improved, but predictivity for clinical translation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional planar electrode arrays to three-dimensional microelectrode arrays that extend into the vertical dimension. This allows electrodes to penetrate and record from three-dimensional neural tissue structures, capturing bioelectrical signals from multiple depths and angles, thereby improving both throughput and clinical predictivity simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a hierarchical nested structure where multiple electrodes are arranged in concentric or layered configurations, with electrodes positioned at different radial distances and depths. This nested arrangement enables simultaneous recording from multiple neural layers and distances, increasing throughput while maintaining the complex spatial relationships necessary for clinically relevant neural signal detection
2Measurement precision
If animal models are used to provide relevant in vivo information, then measurement precision is improved, but time consumption and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified in vitro copy of in vivo neural tissue architecture using three-dimensional cultured neural tissues that replicate the structural and functional characteristics of native neural tissue. The 3D microelectrode arrays record bioelectrical signals from these cultured tissues, providing in vivo-relevant information without requiring actual animal subjects, thereby reducing time and labor while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces three-dimensional cultured neural tissues as an intermediary system between animal models and traditional in vitro assays. These cultured tissues serve as a mediator that can be manipulated in controlled laboratory settings while still providing physiologically relevant neural signal data, eliminating the need for time-consuming animal experiments
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables more accurate prediction of neural pathology and assessment of drug efficacy and toxicity, reducing the time and cost associated with drug development by providing clinically relevant metrics.
Implementation Method 1
configured to provide real-time, reliable detection of one or more bioelectrical signals
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a microelectrode array for use in microengineered physiological systems and methods of using the same.