Improving the longevity of neural implants using acoustic technology
Official title: Development of an Acoustic Implant Protection System to Improve Performance and Longevity of Neural Interfaces
Funded at Actuated Medical, INC. · NIH-10884937 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new system that uses sound waves to help keep brain implants working better and longer, which could really help people with chronic neural implants by reducing problems that can cause them to fail.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Actuated Medical, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bellefonte, United States) |
| Project start | September 5, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,035,183 |
| NIH project number | 5R44MH131514-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10884937 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic neurological conditions requiring neural implants, such as those with amputations or neurological disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have chronic neural implants or those with conditions that do not require such interventions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an Acoustic Implant Protection (AIP) system that applies precision acoustic fields to neural implants. The goal is to prevent issues that lead to electrode failure, which can occur due to the body's immune response to the implant. By enhancing the longevity and functionality of these implants, the research aims to improve their effectiveness in treating neurological disorders and facilitating brain-machine interfaces. Patients with chronic neural implants may benefit from this innovative approach, which seeks to address the challenges of signal loss and implant viability.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the performance and lifespan of neural implants, leading to better treatment outcomes for patients with neurological conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using acoustic technology for neural implants is innovative, similar research has shown promise in improving implant longevity and functionality.
Where this research is happening
-
Actuated Medical, INC.
Bellefonte, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mulvihill, Maureen L. — Actuated Medical, INC.
- Study coordinator: Mulvihill, Maureen L.
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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.