Sub-Project 4

Indigenous Implantable Technologies for Brain Signal Acquisition and Stimulation

OVERVIEW

This sub-project develops two novel implantable devices: a multi-contact intracortical depth electrode and a micro-pillar-based multi-contact cortical array. Together, these devices will enable high-density, multi-regional brain recording and stimulation — a critical capability for co-processors that must interface with distributed cortical networks, not just the motor cortex.

WHY EPILEPSY PATIENTS?

Epilepsy patients undergoing pre-surgical monitoring provide a rare and invaluable window into the live human brain at millisecond and millimeter resolution. These individuals have electrodes implanted in cortical and subcortical areas for clinical purposes; with their consent, we conduct cognitive experiments during their monitoring period. Their brain activity during tasks provides direct insights into the neural computations that co-processors need to replicate.

RESEARCH GOALS

Design and fabricate a miniaturized multi-contact intracortical depth electrode for simultaneous recording at multiple brain depths

Develop a novel micro-pillar cortical array with electrode contacts on each pillar for dense, multi-site surface recording

Develop a custom wireless neural signal acquisition and stimulation system integrated with FPGA and ESP32 microprocessors

Validate devices through animal models and translate toward human trials

WHY MULTI-REGIONAL RECORDING MATTERS

Research consistently shows that goal-directed reaching engages not just the primary motor cortex but a broad network spanning visual-parietal areas, secondary motor areas, and prefrontal regions. A co-processor that interfaces only with motor cortex will capture only a fraction of the relevant neural computation. Our multi-regional approach is designed to capture the full distributed architecture of purposeful movement.

INFRASTRUCTURE

  • Ultrashort-pulse laser micromachining system for electrode patterning
  • Physical and chemical vapor deposition equipment for thin-film electrode fabrication
  • Maskless aligner for microscale lithography
  • Wireless acquisition and stimulation system (Intan RHS2116 platform)
  • Rodent (Long Evans) and porcine model facilities for progressive safety testing

CLINICAL PARTNERS

  • Amrita Advanced Centre for Epilepsy (Kochi)
  • MS Ramaiah Memorial Hospitals (Bengaluru)
  • Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute (Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital (Pune)

EXPECTED OUTPUTS

  • Intracortical depth electrode and micro-cortical array validated in animal models
  • Wireless acquisition and stimulation platform ready for clinical integration
  • Patent applications and startup formation in brain implant technology
  • Device certification and regulatory filing for human trials