Graphene-electrode array for brain map remodeling of the cortical surface

Cortical maps, which are indicative of cognitive status, are shaped by the organism's experience. Previous mapping tools, such as penetrating electrodes and imaging techniques, are limited in their ability to be used to assess high-resolution brain maps largely owing to their invasiveness and poor spatiotemporal resolution, respectively. In this study, we developed a flexible graphene-based multichannel electrode array for electrocorticography (ECoG) recording, which enabled us to assess cortical maps in a time- and labor-efficient manner. The flexible electrode array, formed by chemical vapor deposition (CVD)-grown graphene, provided low impedance and electrical noise because a good interface between the graphene and brain tissue was created, which improved the detectability of neural signals. Furthermore, cortical map remodeling was induced upon electrical stimulation at the cortical surface through a subset of graphene spots. This result demonstrated the macroscale plasticity of cortical maps, suggesting perceptual enhancement via electrical rehabilitation at the cortical surface.

Automated summary

A flexible graphene-based multichannel electrode array was developed to efficiently assess cortical maps, inducing cortical map remodeling through electrical stimulation at graphene spots. This technology improved the detectability of neural signals and provided a new method for studying cognitive status in the brain.