Electronic Dura Mater Meddling in the Central Nervous System

Bloch J, Lacour SP, Courtine G

IMPORTANCE:

A growing number of neurologic treatments rely on neural implants capable of delivering electrical and chemical stimulation to targeted regions of the central nervous system for extended periods.

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the potential of a novel class of multimodal neural implants, termed electronic duramater or e-dura, to fulfill this need.

EVIDENCE REVIEW:

Results from preclinical applications of e-dura implants and clinical evidence.

FINDINGS:

The silicone-based implant e-dura embeds interconnects, electrodes, and chemotrodes that are entirely stretchable. These unique mechanical properties allow e-dura to conform to the circumvolutions of the brain and spinal cord without damaging neural tissues or triggering foreign body reactions.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE:

Although challenges lie ahead to reach clinical fruition, the unique mechanical properties and integrated modalities of e-dura provide future opportunities to treat or alleviate neurologic deficits.

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