Scientists create a needle-thin brain implant that can do three jobs at once

Overview: Scientists have developed a needle-thin brain implant called the microfluidic Axialtrode (mAxialtrode) equipped with microscopic channels. This allows researchers to record neural activity and deliver medication across different parts of the brain, providing more precise research tools for conditions like epilepsy.

Key Points: - Scientists have developed a needle-thin brain implant called the microfluidic Axialtrode (mAxialtrode) equipped with microscopic channels. This allows researchers to record neural activity and deliver medication across different parts of the brain, providing more precise research tools for conditions like epilepsy. Currently intended primarily as a research tool, the technology could eventually have therapeutic applications such as delivering drugs while applying electrical stimulation or light therapy. The new implant is made of soft, plastic-like optical fibers and has an angled tip to reduce inflammation compared to current silicon-based implants. This study was published in Advanced Science.

Summary: Scientists have developed a needle-thin brain implant called the microfluidic Axialtrode (mAxialtrode) equipped with microscopic channels. This allows researchers to record neural activity and deliver medication across different parts of the brain, providing more precise research tools for conditions like epilepsy.