Revolutionizing brain‒computer interfaces: overcoming biocompatibility challenges in implantable neural interfaces
Weihang Gao, Zineng Yan, Hong Zhou, Yiyang Xie, Honglin Wang, Jiaming Yang, Jingbo Yu, Changmao Ni, Pengran Liu, Mao Hai Xie, Li Huang, Zhewei Ye
Abstract
Brain‒computer interfaces (BCIs) exhibit significant potential for various applications, including neurofeedback training, neurological injury management, and language, sensory and motor rehabilitation. Neural interfacing electrodes are positioned between external electronic devices and the nervous system to capture complex neuronal activity data and promote the repair of damaged neural tissues. Implantable neural electrodes can record and modulate neural activities with both high spatial and high temporal resolution, offering a wide window for neuroscience research. Despite significant advancements over the years, conventional neural electrode interfaces remain insufficient for fully achieving these objectives, particularly in the context of long-term implantation. The primary limitation stems from the poor biocompatibility and mechanical mismatch between the interfacing electrodes and neural tissues, which induce a local immune response and scar tissue formation, thus decreasing the performance and useful lifespan. Therefore, neural interfaces should ideally exhibit appropriate stiffness and minimal foreign body reactions to mitigate neuroinflammation and enhance recording quality. This review provides an exhaustive analysis of the current understanding of the critical failure modes that may impact the performance of implantable neural electrodes. Additionally, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the current research on coating materials and design strategies for implanted neural interfaces and discusses the primary challenges currently facing long-term implantation of neural electrodes. Finally, we present our perspective and propose possible future research directions to improve implantable neural interfaces for BCIs.