Creating advanced microelectrode arrays for better brain activity monitoring
Official title: Scalable fabrication of high-density amorphous silicon carbide microelectrode arrays for chronic neural interfacing
Funded at University of Oregon · NIH-10877441 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new type of tiny device that can be easily placed in the brain to pick up signals from nerve cells, which could help us learn more about brain activity over time and improve treatments for conditions like epilepsy or Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $728,672 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS136987-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10877441 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological disorders who may benefit from advanced neural monitoring techniques.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neurological conditions or those who are not candidates for neural interfacing may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing high-density microelectrode arrays made from amorphous silicon carbide to record neural activity in the brain. The project aims to create self-inserting 128-channel arrays that can be implanted easily and provide high-quality neural signals over extended periods. By using scalable fabrication methods, the researchers hope to overcome the limitations of current carbon fiber electrodes, which are difficult to manufacture at scale. This advancement could significantly enhance our understanding of long-term changes in neural circuits and improve clinical treatments for neurological disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved monitoring and treatment options for patients with neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using advanced microelectrode technologies for neural interfacing, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oregon
Eugene, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deku, Felix — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Deku, Felix
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.