Abstract
This two-part lecture aims to provide a holistic understanding of neural recording and stimulation electrodes, from design to practical application, and to highlight the importance of engineering and materials science in advancing neuroscience research and clinical applications.
This first part focuses on the technologies and principles that make possible the precise capture of neural signals. We begin with an in-depth exploration of the electrochemical properties that define the interface between electrodes and brain tissue, highlighting how these interactions influence the quality and fidelity of recorded data. We will then address the essential design criteria for electrodes, including their sizing and shape, to maximize sensitivity. We'll highlight challenges and solutions in electrode fabrication, from traditional techniques to cutting-edge methods such as microfabrication, emphasizing the importance of choosing suitable materials that offer excellent conductivity, long-term biocompatibility, and durability. Finally, we will discuss recent advances in the field, including the integration of innovative materials such as conductive polymers and the concept of active electrodes, opening up new avenues for improving the performance of neural recording electrodes.
