Multifunctional Fiber-Based Interfaces with Central and Peripheral Circuits

To probe the complexity of neuronal signaling between the central and peripheral nervous systems our group designs multifunctional, multimaterial fibers based on soft polymers, composites, and hydrogels. Previously limited to passive electrical, optical, and microfluidic features, these fibers have been augmented with active solid-state devices to record and deliver signals to organs as diverse as the brain and the gastrointestinal tract in freely-behaving rodents. Integration of solid-state components further enabled wireless operation of these fibers. In addition to probing electrophysiological activity, we have recently explored optical recording of neurochemistry using multifunctional fibers in conjunction with fluorescent activity indicators. Photometric recordings revealed the effects of drugs of abuse on neural circuits, and for the first time, permitted recording of signaling of non-neuronal tumor cells in vivo, empowering studies of tumor growth and informing brain-cancer therapies.