Title :
Towards a biodegradable, electro-active nerve repair conduit
Author :
Martin, Christopher ; Dejardin, Theophile ; Hart, Andrew ; Riehle, Mathis O. ; Cumming, David R. S.
Author_Institution :
Univ. of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
Abstract :
An approach to applying alternating electric fields to regenerating neurons from a wirelessly powered nerve repair conduit is outlined here. An electrical stimulation waveform capable of controlling neuronal growth is demonstrated with hybrid stimulation modules that consist of mechanical and electrical guidance cues. An inductive powering system is used to deliver this stimulation signal to a biodegradable electro-active substrate, validating it as a potential implant device. A passive impedance sensor, designed to chart cell growth within an implant is then discussed.
Keywords :
biodegradable materials; bioelectric phenomena; cellular biophysics; inductive power transmission; neurophysiology; patient treatment; power supplies to apparatus; prosthetics; tissue engineering; alternating electric fields; biodegradable electroactive substrate; biodegradable nerve repair conduit; electrical guidance cues; electrical stimulation waveform; electroactive nerve repair conduit; hybrid stimulation modules; implant cell growth; implant device; inductive powering system; mechanical guidance cues; neuron regeneration; neuronal growth control; passive impedance sensor; wirelessly powered nerve repair conduit; Electric fields; Electrical stimulation; Electrodes; Impedance; Maintenance engineering; Neurons; Receivers; Nerve repair; biodegradable; electrical stimulation; flexible electronics; wireless power;
Conference_Titel :
Advances in Sensors and Interfaces (IWASI), 2015 6th IEEE International Workshop on
Conference_Location :
Gallipoli
DOI :
10.1109/IWASI.2015.7184981
