We investigate the use of graphene as the active material to interface with neural tissues. For that, we have developed the technological processes to integrate graphene solution-gated field-effect transistors (gSGFETs) in flexible neural interfaces. Notably, we have demonstrated the unique ability of gSGFETs to achieve stable and chronic DC-coupled recordings. In addition, the use of graphene active transducers enables the implementation of multiplexed read-out strategies, which are essential for creating high channel-count neural interfaces, minimizing the connectivity limitations. This key differentiation factors of our technology have enabled us to establish high-value research collaborations with neuroscience groups.
These collaborations are aimed at studying the role of infra-slow signals (ISA) in various neurological processes and pathologies. Our pioneering work in this area enhances our understanding of neural activity and opens up new avenues for diagnosing and treating neurological disorders such as epilepsy, stroke, or migraine.
The research activity in this line involves several group members with diverse backgrounds. In addition to addressing microfabrication challenges, it requires the development of custom biomedical instrumentation for signal acquisition and support for neuroscience collaborators in processing the acquired signals. It is worth noting that the neuroscience community is predominantly trained to use passive electrodes for neural electrical recordings. Therefore, the introduction of gSGFETs as active transducers presents distinct challenges that must be carefully addressed to facilitate their widespread adoption. Unlike traditional passive electrodes, gSGFETs require different handling and instrumentation, which necessitates additional training and adaptation within the neuroscience community. Moreover, the clinical translation of gSGFET technology involves overcoming several technical and regulatory hurdles. Ensuring the electrical safety of the system is paramount, requiring comprehensive research and development to meet clinical standards.
Related publications:
Masvidal-Codina E, Illa X, Dasilva M, Bonaccini Calia A, Dragojević T, Vidal-Rosas EE, Prats-Alfonso E, Martínez-Aguilar J, De la Cruz JM, Garcia-Cortadella R, Godignon P, Rius G, Camassa A, Del Corro E, Bousquet J, Hébert C, Durduran T, Villa R, Sanchez-Vives MV, Garrido JA, Guimerà-Brunet A. High-resolution mapping of infraslow cortical brain activity enabled by graphene microtransistors. Nature Materials 18 (2019) 280-288. DOI
Bonaccini Calia A, Masvidal-Codina E, Smith TM, Schäfer N, Rathore D, Rodríguez-Lucas E, Illa X, De la Cruz JM, Del Corro E, Prats-Alfonso E, Viana D, Bousquet J, Hébert C, Martínez-Aguilar J, Sperling JR, Drummond M, Halder A, Dodd A, Barr K, Savage S, Fornell J, Sort J, Guger C, Villa R, Kostarelos K, Wykes RC, Guimerà-Brunet A, Garrido JA. Full-bandwidth electrophysiology of seizures and epileptiform activity enabled by flexible graphene microtransistor depth neural probes. Nature Nanotechnology 17 (2022) 301-309. DOI
Contact: Anton Guimerà