Non-Surgical Brain Implants Enable Targeted Neuromodulation in Mice
Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed microscopic, wireless bioelectronics capable of autonomously implanting themselves in specific brain regions to treat neurological conditions. This breakthrough technology has potential applications in treating brain tumors, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis.
New Approach to Brain Implants
The study, published in Nature Biotechnology under the title “A non-surgical brain implant enabled through cell-electronics hybrid for focal neuromodulation,” introduces implants that can be injected rather than surgically implanted.
“While brain implants usually require hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical costs and risky surgical procedures, circulatronics technology holds the potential to make therapeutic brain implants accessible to all by eliminating the need for surgery,” said Deblina Sarkar, PhD, associate professor at the MIT Center for Neurobiological Engineering and head of the Nano-Cybernetic Biotrek Lab.
Functionality and Advantages
- These tiny implants autonomously migrate to the target brain region after injection, without human guidance.
- They are wirelessly powered to deliver precise electrical stimulation, achieving neuromodulation in the designated area.
- The implants are integrated with living biological cells, which helps them evade immune system rejection.
- They can cross the blood-brain barrier, a key challenge for neurological therapies.
Demonstration in Animal Models
The technology was successfully tested in mice, showing accurate targeting and functional electrical stimulation post-implantation.
Implications for Future Treatments
This innovation suggests a less invasive, potentially more affordable alternative to current brain implant procedures, expanding access to neuromodulation therapies.
Deblina Sarkar emphasized the potential impact: “Circulatronics technology holds the potential to make therapeutic brain implants accessible to all by eliminating the need for surgery.”
Author’s summary: This pioneering study presents microscopic, wireless brain implants that self-position and modulate brain activity without surgery, promising safer, more accessible neurological treatments.