Comment on Biohybrid's Neural Implant Connects to the Brain With Living Neurons
AbouBenAdhem@lemmy.world 2 weeks agoBetween the various cortical layers and white matter, what part of the brain’s structure do these implants typically target? Do they sit on top of the outermost layer of some specific region of the cortex, or do they make long-distance connections to other brain structures?
Neuromancer49@midwest.social 2 weeks ago
A traditional electrode array needs to be as close to the neurons as possible to collect data. So, straight through the dura and pia mater, into the parenchyma where the cell axons and bodies are hanging out. Usually, they collect local data without getting any long distance information - which is a limiting factor to this technology.
The brain needs widespread areas to work in tandem to get most complicated tasks done. An electrode is great for measuring motor activity because those are pretty localized. But, something like memory and language? Not really possible.
There are electrocorticographic devices (ECoG) that places electrodes over a wide area and can rest on the pia mater, on the surface of the brain. Less invasive, but you still need a craniotomy to place the device. They also have less resolution.