Wireless implantable microsystems for neural recording and stimulation

The combination of micromachined sensors (MEMS), low-power electronics, and wireless power and data transfer will have a profound impact on many aspects of our lives, from health care to environmental monitoring and homeland security. These Wireless Integrated Microsystems (WIMS) will especially play a major role in the biomedical arena, where they have been and will continue to be used for restoring function in individuals affected by deafness, blindness, paralysis, Parkinson, epilepsy, and other biological disorders. By directly interfacing with the body, it is possible to sense biological signals, use these signals as controls, and provide electrical/chemical stimuli to specific organs, where needed, to restore lost function. This talk will review research conducted at the University of Michigan on implantable biomedical devices for use in closed-loop neural prostheses. It will present the latest developments in micromachined microprobes for recording neural activity and electrical stimulation, the design of electronic circuits required for processing neural signals, the use of wireless transmission of power and data to/from implantable systems, and the development of hermetic and biocompatible packaging and encapsulation technologies compatible with long-term operation in the body. Future challenges as well as opportunities for implantable microsystems aimed at overcoming many biological disorders will be discussed.