Improving brain stimulation with wireless diamond electrodes
Mechanisms of localized neuronal excitation with diamond Wireless Axon and electrical microstimulation
This study is exploring new tiny, wireless brain stimulation devices made from safe materials to help improve treatments for brain conditions by making them more effective and less damaging over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11055066 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of brain stimulation techniques by developing ultra-small, wireless electrodes made from biocompatible diamond materials. These electrodes aim to overcome the limitations of traditional tethered stimulation devices, which can cause mechanical issues and tissue damage over time. By improving the spatial and temporal resolution of stimulation, the project seeks to provide better integration with brain tissue and more precise activation of neurons. This innovative approach could lead to advancements in neuroprosthetics and basic neuroscience applications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological disorders who may benefit from advanced neuroprosthetic devices.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve the need for electrical stimulation of brain tissue may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective brain stimulation therapies for patients with neurological conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using advanced materials for brain stimulation, but this specific approach with wireless diamond electrodes is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kozai, Takashi Daniel Yoshida — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Kozai, Takashi Daniel Yoshida
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 below.