The NeuroProbes Project - Multifunctional Probe Arrays for Neural Recording and Stimulation

Abstract

This paper summarizes recent advances of the NeuroProbes project, a 4-year Integrated Project funded by the European Commission under the Information Society Technologies (IST) topic of the 6 th Framework Program. NeuroProbes aims at the development of multifunctional probe arrays comprising a 3-dimensional (3D) ar- rangement of recording and stimulation electrodes in conjunction with microfluidic functionality and integrated biosensors. The silicon based probes with planar electrodes are available as single shafts, in a comb-like ar- rangement and as 3D arrays for both, acute and chronic applications. The modular system concept and respective fabrication technology allows for a slim design of the 3D array conducive to its floating application. Initial re- cording and stimulation experiments demonstrated the feasibility of the concept and showed stable recordings of single and multiple unit activity as well as local field potential measurements over a time frame of one week.