Suppressing Immune Responses, Recording Ultra-High-Resolution Signals
Anticipated Synergy in Brain-Computer Interface Research
Pusan National University has succeeded in developing an ultrathin flexible neural probe, bringing the field closer not only to the diagnosis and treatment of brain diseases but also to brain-computer interface (BCI) technology.
On June 11, Pusan National University announced that the research team led by Seokwon Hong, Professor of the Department of Optical Mechatronics Engineering, and Hyekyung Shin, Professor of the Graduate School of Korean Medicine, had developed a neural probe with a thickness of approximately 3.6 micrometers.
From the left, Seokwon Hong, Professor of Department of Optical Mechatronics Engineering at Pusan National University, Hyekyung Shin, Professor of Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Junghwa Jeong, PhD candidate of Department of Cognitive Mechatronics Engineering, Kyunghwa Heo, PhD candidate of Department of Cognitive Mechatronics Engineering, Sunyoung Chae, PhD at Center for Color Modulation and Ultra-Sensory Cognition Technology, Youngwoo Kwon, Industry-University Cooperation Professor at Semiconductor Specialized University Project Group. Provided by Pusan National University
This achievement was published as the cover paper in the June 5 issue of the international journal 'Advanced Functional Materials.'
The neural probe is a core electronic device that is inserted into neural tissues such as the brain to measure signals or deliver stimulation. In this study, the team succeeded in simultaneously achieving 32-channel high-resolution measurements and deep brain stimulation in the deeper regions of the brain.
The researchers implemented an ultrathin structure by stacking gold (Au) electrodes and a conductive polymer (PEDOT:PSS) on an SU-8 photoresist, which is commonly used in semiconductor processes. They also applied 'kirigami' technology, inspired by traditional Japanese paper crafting, enabling the device to operate stably even with subtle movements of the brain.
To reduce inflammatory responses that may occur during neural insertion, the team coated the surface with 'laminin.' As a result, levels of inflammatory marker proteins decreased by up to 30%, and reactive oxygen species were also significantly reduced, demonstrating the device's immune response suppression effect.
Using this device, the researchers were able to inject neurotransmitters into specific regions of a mouse brain and precisely track electrical signal responses in real time, confirming its potential for brain research and drug response analysis.
They also conducted deep brain stimulation (DBS) experiments on Parkinson's disease model mice, confirming changes in signals before and after stimulation as well as improvements in motor function. Compared to conventional silicon electrodes, the new probe demonstrated superior flexibility and biocompatibility, highlighting its potential as a next-generation brain disease treatment device.
With Elon Musk's Neuralink recently beginning human BCI clinical trials, Pusan National University's kirigami-based ultrathin probe is expected to further enhance the competitiveness of domestic brain interface technology.
Junghwa Jeong, the PhD candidate who led the experiments, stated, "We have established a biocompatible system that surpasses the limitations of existing electrodes," and added, "It enables stable long-term signal recording."
Professors Seokwon Hong and Hyekyung Shin commented, "This technology can be expanded into next-generation platforms by combining it with photostimulation or wireless modules," and shared their plans to accelerate commercialization of clinical implantable medical devices.
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