Interfacing Neurons with Nanoelectronics : From Model Networks to Brain

Orateur : Cécile DELACOUR (Thermodynamics and Biophysics of small systems group, Institut Néel, Grenoble)

Long-lasting and high-resolution mapping of the neuron electrical signaling is of primary importance to provide new insights into neurodegenerative diseases or post-injury nerve recovery. In that context, we aim to follow the emergence and evolution of spontaneous activity patterns in neural networks, from nanoscale events to collective behavior over a large population of neurons. Among all approaches, we are currently working on the implementation of highly sensitive (electronic) nano-devices and their coupling with designable cultured neuron networks as well as their implantation in rodent brain. Recently, polycrystalline graphene field effect transistors (GFETs) have appeared as promising tools for recording the activity of neurons, providing highly adhesive substrate and nanoscale contact to the cells, with a high sensitivity and chemical inertness when operating in reactive ionic liquids. In particular, the GFETs arrays enable us to explore the spontaneous activity of single ion channels in primary hippocampal neuron networks, which have been cultured in-situ on the devices during more than 3 weeks. Such versatile novel sensors provide a generic platform for further bioelectronics studies regarding the high neuronal affinity of graphene, being useful also for enhancing the time stability of the current implants for long-lasting brain interfacing.

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