May 5, 2025. The Technologies for Bioelectronics research group at Fraunhofer IZM, led by Prof. Vasiliki (Vasso) Giagka, together with Delft University of Technology and other partners, has made significant progress in the development of long-term stable neural implants. The aim of the research was to improve the resistance of silicon-based integrated circuits (ICs) in the corrosive environment of the human body.
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The results, published in the journal Nature Communications [1], show that silicon chips can function stably electrically under physiological conditions over long periods of time. A partial coating with PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) proved to be an effective protective barrier against body fluids. In accelerated in-vitro studies with heat, salt solution and electrical stress, the chips remained functional over a longer period of time. Material analyses confirmed that while unprotected areas showed signs of degradation, the structure in PDMS-coated zones remained largely intact.
In addition, the team evaluated the suitability of atomic layer deposition (ALD) and hybrid multilayer coatings for miniaturized implants in another publication in Small [2]. The investigations show that ultrathin ALD coatings offer high biostability and thus represent a promising solution for future bioelectronic applications.
Neuronal implants are a key technology for the treatment of neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s or clinical depression. They make it possible to stimulate, block or record neuronal signals – especially in chronic use. The long-term stability of the electronic components is a key prerequisite for clinical success.
Links to the publications:
[1] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-55298-4
[2] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/smll.202410141
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Photo: Fraunhofer IZM
