Research says graphene electrodes help repair perception

A study published by the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom on the 29th showed that researchers successfully implanted graphene electrodes in the brain of mice and connected directly to neurons. This technology can be used to repair amputation, paralysis, and even Parkinson's disease in the future. The cognitive function helps them to recover better. Graphene is a two-dimensional crystal consisting of carbon atoms that is stripped from a graphite material and is about the same thickness as a layer of atoms. This material is superior to steel and other materials in terms of flexibility, toughness, and tensile properties, and is known as the "king of new materials."

University of Cambridge researchers and colleagues in Italy and Spain used mouse brain cell cultures to perform experiments and found that electrodes made from graphene materials can be safely connected to brain neurons, and these neurons can be transmitted normally after connection. Radio signals do not produce adverse reactions.

These electrodes, which are directly connected to the neurons, can transmit brain wave signals to the outside world, allowing the outside world to understand the brain activities more clearly and repair the sensory functions. For example, if the robot arm can receive brain wave signals, it will grasp the object according to the amputee's idea; intervention on these brain wave signals will also help patients with Parkinson's disease to better control the disease. However, the electrodes made of other materials have not been satisfactory and the signal transmission has been unstable.

According to reports, the graphene has excellent electrical conductivity, and the electrodes made from this material have achieved stable brain wave signal transmission. Some of the characteristics of the neurons have not changed because of the connection with the electrodes.

The researchers said that next they will explore the use of different types of graphene materials from multilayers to monolayers to make electrodes and observe their effects on neuronal connections. Ultimately, they hope to develop high sensitivity and low side effects. Into the brain electrode.