FNI Research Interests
The purpose of the research of FNI is to improve human neurologic health and function through the integration of engineered devices into living systems. The research goal is to advance the field of Neural Engineering in three specific areas:
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(i) Clinical implementation of devices in neural prosthesis systems for individuals with diseased or compromised neural systems. The specific research projects planned are (a) dynamic laryngotracheal closure and (b) implementation of peripheral nerve electrodes in clinical neuroprosthesis systems.
(ii) Advanced devices to improve extraction of information from and activation of the human nervous system. The specific research projects planned are (a) advanced Flat Interface Nerve Electrodes (FINE) with increased contact density, optimized contact layout, and inclusion of circuitry directly on the electrode and (b) investigation of non-linear, non-square stimulation paradigms for more selective peripheral nerve stimulation.
(iii) Neuromimetic interfaces between neural tissue and engineered devices. A neuromimetic interface is defined as an electrode, polymer, or other device or material that mimics the mechanical, chemical, and/or electrical properties of neural tissue. The purpose is to integrate devices that behave as though they were natural neural tissue. The specific research projects planned are (a) peripheral nerve electrodes coated with neural signaling molecules to produce axon collateral sprouting and transperineurial axon migration to connect to the electrode, and (b) polymeric fiber substrates with mechanical properties similar to neural tissue for use in cortical electrodes.
The research projects include elements from basic, applied, and clinical research, or each phase of the "bench-to-bedside" process. It is envisioned to generate a pipeline of complementary research projects for development of neural prostheses.
Active FNI Projects
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