25 Sep Integrated microfluidic platform for real-time neural probing and wireless drug delivery

Drug delivery systems aim at the controlled release and targeted delivery of pharmaceutical compounds to the body. With the advances made in miniaturized devices and microfluidic flow control systems, we are steps closer to fully automated microfluidic drug delivery systems with real-time monitoring capabilities. For this week’s research highlight, we have selected one such advancement. In this article published in Nature Communication, a research group integrated a PDMS-based microfluidic device with wireless neural prob for real-time investigation of the effects of the drug on mice. 

“Herein, we present a miniaturized, wireless neural probe system with the capability of delivering drugs for the real-time investigation of the effects of the drugs on both behavioral and neural activities in socially interacting mice. We demonstrate wireless drug delivery and simultaneous monitoring of the resulting neural, behavioral changes, as well as the dose-dependent and repeatable responses to drugs. Furthermore, in pairs of mice, we use a food competition assay in which social interaction was modulated by the delivery of the drug, and the resulting changes in their neural activities are analyzed.“, the authors explained.

“a Schematic illustrations of the wireless neural probe system and its capabilities for behavioral neuropharmacology. b Scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of the neural probe showing the interdigitated electrode (IDE) and the fluid inlet. The magnified SEM image showing a probe shank tip, including 16 microelectrodes and microfluidic channels. c Photograph showing the overall configuration of the system. d Photograph showing the wireless neural probe system mounted on the head of a mouse.” Reproduced under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License from Yoon, Y., Shin, H., Byun, D. et al. Neural probe system for behavioral neuropharmacology by bi-directional wireless drug delivery and electrophysiology in socially interacting mice. Nat Commun 13, 5521 (2022).

“We expect that our system will be utilized as an effective tool for the screening of neurological drugs and that it will contribute to the development of pharmacotherapy for various neurological disorders.“, the authors concluded.

The figures and the abstract are reproduced from Yoon, Y., Shin, H., Byun, D. et al. Neural probe system for behavioral neuropharmacology by bi-directional wireless drug delivery and electrophysiology in socially interacting mice. Nat Commun 13, 5521 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-022-33296-8

Read the original article: Neural probe system for behavioral neuropharmacology by bi-directional wireless drug delivery and electrophysiology in socially interacting mice