A Chronically Implantable Neural Coprocessor for Investigating the Treatment of Neurological Disorders

TLDR

Developing flexible, configurable tools to better understand and treat nervous system disorders is a key focus of bioelectronic medicine research. The paper presents the Summit RC+S neural coprocessor, a microprocessor‑based prosthesis designed for bi‑directional neural interfacing. The system architecture includes five custom integrated circuits, firmware and software for bi‑directional neural interfacing, and design enhancements such as improved sense‑stim performance, rechargeable power, and MICS‑band telemetry. Validation in chronically implanted canines with naturally occurring epilepsy demonstrated effective treatment while allowing free ambulation in a home environment.

Abstract

Developing new tools to better understand disorders of the nervous system, with a goal to more effectively treat them, is an active area of bioelectronic medicine research. Future tools must be flexible and configurable, given the evolving understanding of both neuromodulation mechanisms and how to configure a system for optimal clinical outcomes. We describe a system, the Summit RC+S "neural coprocessor," that attempts to bring the capability and flexibility of a microprocessor to a prosthesis embedded within the nervous system. This paper describes the updated system architecture for the Summit RC+S system, the five custom integrated circuits required for bi-directional neural interfacing, the supporting firmware/software ecosystem, and the verification and validation activities to prepare for human implantation. Emphasis is placed on design changes motivated by experience with the CE-marked Activa PC+S research tool; specifically, enhancement of sense-stim performance for improved bi-directional communication to the nervous system, implementation of rechargeable technology to extend device longevity, and application of MICS-band telemetry for algorithm development and data management. The technology was validated in a chronic treatment paradigm for canines with naturally occurring epilepsy, including free ambulation in the home environment, which represents a typical use case for future human protocols.