Improving tiny brain electrodes to better control nerve cells
Engineering the Neuronal Response to Electrical Microstimulation
This project develops new designs and computer models for tiny brain electrodes to safely and precisely stimulate nerve cells for people with brain or spinal injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11376799 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You should know the team is combining computer modeling, engineering, and live testing to build and refine microelectrode arrays that target neurons with high precision. They aim to find ways to deliver charge without causing tissue damage and to selectively activate specific neural elements. Work includes designing devices, running simulations, and measuring performance in laboratory and in vivo experiments. If the tools perform well, researchers could use them to create more precise electrical therapies for neurological injuries.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with brain or spinal cord injuries who might be candidates for implanted electrical stimulation therapies in the future are the most relevant group.
Not a fit: People without nervous-system injuries or whose conditions are not treated with implanted electrodes are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to safer, more precise electrical therapies that better restore function for people with brain or spinal injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Related techniques like deep brain stimulation have helped some patients, but developing safer, cell-scale microelectrodes is a newer and less-tested area.
Where this research is happening
West Lafayette, United States
- Purdue University — West Lafayette, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Otto, Kevin J. — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Otto, Kevin J.
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.