Flexible microelectrode for interfacing regenerating peripheral nerves

A flexible multichannel regeneration electrode capable of recording from and stimulating peripheral nerves has been developed in order to allow the control of artificial organs and prostheses and to generate artificial sensations. The microelectrode based on the nerve regeneration principle was designed and fabricated using flexible printed circuit technology. The electrode, which was fabricated on a 50 /spl mu/m-thick polyimide substrate, has multiple holes for recording and stimulating sites which allow the regeneration of axons. The electrodes were implanted between the ends of surgically-severed sciatic nerves of rats. Regeneration of axons through the holes was observed both histologically and functionally, and it was possible to record the spontaneous action potential from the regenerating nerves. The authors are currently attempting to control external devices using these signals from the nervous system.