3D-printed neural interfaces for small peripheral nerves
Description
Realizing stable, long-term interfacing with the central and peripheral nervous system challenging in part because it requires tools capable of interacting with neural tissues across a range of spatial scales within a biomechanically challenging environment. Materials and devices constructed at the micro- and nano-scales can circumvent many of the limitations of currently available technologies, allowing us to not only interface with tissue more densely – increasing both spatial resolution and dimensionality – but also to take advantage of the increased biocompatibility and decreased material stiffness as minimum implanted feature sizes shrink. In addition, 3D-printing approaches have the additional benefit of enabling rapid translation of complex computer generated designs into physical objects using photopolymers with properties that can be programmatically tailored to specific interfacing requirements. In this seminar, I will present our recent efforts using high-resolution direct laser writing to create implantable bioelectronic interfaces for small peripheral nerves.
Speaker Bio
Tim Otchy studied Mechanical Engineering at GeorgiaTech and subsequently worked in industry developing machine vision and robotic guidance and control systems. He later earned his Master’s in Philosophy of Science at Tufts University followed by a PhD in Neuroscience at Harvard University with Bence Ölveczky, where he focused on the neural mechanisms that support the acquisition and adaptation of motor skills in songbirds. In work at Boston University – first as a post-doctoral researcher with Timothy Gardner and now as a Principal Investigator and Research Assistant Professor of Biology – he uses novel nanofabrication techniques to create chronically stable, high-density bioelectronic and optical interfaces for the peripheral and central nervous system.