Implantable polycrystalline diamond neural probe for in vivo and in vitro physiological recording

A second generation (Gen-2) diamond neural probe equipped with both electrical and electrochemical recording abilities is reported for the first time. Fabrication problems related to the high temperature and power requirements associated with diamond growth and the integration of diamond into neural probe technology have been addressed. In this design, polycrystalline diamond (poly-C) is used as the material for the probe's shank and working electrode. Ag/AgCl and gold are used for reference and counter electrodes, respectively. The probe's efficacy for in vivo electrical recording and in vitro electrochemical detection of Norepinephrine ( ~10 muM) is demonstrated.