Challenges and Opportunities of Implantable Neural Interfaces: From Material, Electrochemical and Biological Perspectives

The desirable implantable neural interfaces can accurately record bioelectrical signals from neurons and regulate neural activities with high spatial/time resolution, facilitating the understanding of neuronal functions and dynamics. However, the electrochemical performance (impedance, charge storage/injection capacity) is limited with the miniaturization and integration of neural electrodes. The crosstalk caused by the uneven distribution of elctric field leads to lower electrical stimulation/recording efficiency. The mismatch between stiff electrodes and soft tissues exacerbates the inflammatory responses, thus weakening the transmission of signals. Though remarkable breakthroughs have been made through the incorporation of optimizing electrode design and functionalized nanomaterials, the chronic stability, and long-term activity in vivo of the neural electrodes still need further development. In this review, the neural interface challenges mainly on electrochemistry and biology are discussed, followed by summarizing typical electrode optimization technologies and exploring recent advances in the application of nanomaterials, based on traditional metallic materials, emerging 2D materials, conducting polymer hydrogels, etc., for enhancing neural interfaces. The strategies for improving the durability including enhanced adhesion and minimized inflammatory response, are also summarized. The promising directions are finally presented to provide enlightenment for high-performance neural interfaces in future, which will promote profound progress in neuroscience research.

Automated summary

Implantable neural interfaces with high spatial/time resolution are desired to accurately record bioelectrical signals from neurons and regulate neural activities. However, miniaturization and integration of neural electrodes limit their electrochemical performance and uneven electric field distribution causes crosstalk, reducing stimulation/recording efficiency. Mismatch between stiff electrodes and soft tissues exacerbates inflammatory responses, weakening signal transmission. Further development is needed for chronic stability and long-term activity of neural electrodes.