Scientists at Moscow State University have developed a new technology for creating electrodes for brain-computer interfaces. Instead of traditional lithography, they use laser processing. This method will accelerate the development of systems and improve neuroprostheses, the university's press service reported.
Thin-film electrodes open up new possibilities for creating safe and durable neural interfaces. Experts have developed a method for their production, which makes prototypes of such electrodes cheaper and faster.
Scientists from three divisions of Moscow State University — the Institute of Artificial Intelligence, the Faculty of Physics, and the Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology — have proposed a revolutionary approach that will accelerate the development of brain-computer interfaces (BCI), neuroprostheses, and nervous system research. Instead of traditional lithography, they used laser processing to create thin-film electrodes with a conductive layer of tantalum and platinum.
The technology was tested in the "Pythia" project. Then, scientists connected a rat's brain to artificial intelligence for the first time.
The experiment showed minimal tissue damage after six months of implantation. The electrodes proved to be safe for surrounding tissues even with prolonged use. As noted at the university, these results open up new opportunities for integrating artificial intelligence and the human brain through implantable neural interfaces.
Earlier, NUST MISIS created a biocompatible microelectrode for stimulating nerve tissue. It is made of polydimethylsiloxane with the addition of carbon nano- and microparticles in various forms: graphite, graphene, and amorphous carbon.
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