UC San Diego

This study demonstrates glassy carbon’s ability to perform as multi-modal flexible penetrating neural probe array. The fabrication process of glassy carbon arrays allows for development of a single device with multiple electrode sites, flexible body, and penetrating probes capable of penetrating neural tissue making the device suitable for various types of brain or spinal cord implant. Furthermore, the investigation into the carbon surface properties makes the device suitable for detecting electrical or electrochemical signals and electrical stimulation of neurons. Here, glassy carbon’s ability to detect electrophysiology and electrochemical signals simultaneously recorded is shown in an in vitro set-up. Glassy carbon’s ability to perform in vivo as an electrochemical and electrophysiological detector and stimulator is also demonstrated.