Micro-electrode Array and Method for Producing a Micro-Electrode Array

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This patent describes a micro-electrode array (MEA) for measuring neural activity, built on a flexible substrate with a novel arrangement of electrodes. These electrodes feature a central core (often light-conducting), surrounded by multiple insulated measurement lines, and have spatially distributed electrode surfaces at the tip, each individually connected. The design allows for improved recording and optional optical stimulation capability, while minimizing tissue damage and electrical interference. The method of manufacturing also enables scalable and flexible implantable devices.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Neural recording in research and clinical neuroscience (e.g., for studying brain activity)
• Development of brain-machine interfaces (BMIs), such as neuroprosthetics
• Treatment and monitoring of neurological diseases through implantable devices
• Optogenetics applications—simultaneous electrical recording and light-based stimulation of neurons
• Flexible, minimally invasive implants for chronic studies in animals or humans
• High-density spatial mapping of neural circuits

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Flexible substrate reduces tissue damage and immune response compared to rigid devices
• Multiple, spatially isolated measurement lines enables simultaneous recording from different locations, enhancing spatial resolution
• Integrated optical stimulation (via light-guiding cores and LEDs/lasers) allows combined optogenetic manipulation and recording
• Reduced parasitic capacitance and interference, improving signal fidelity—critical for detecting weak neuronal signals
• Manufacturing method allows scalable, reproducible, and customizable electrode arrays
• Improved long-term stability and biocompatibility due to materials and passivation techniques
• Ability to address deeper or more superficial brain regions through variable electrode lengths

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a micro-electrode array (1) comprising a flexible substrate (2) and a plurality of electrodes (3) for electrically measuring neural activity. The electrodes (3) are arranged on the substrate (2), project from the plane of the substrate (2) and have a core (4). Multiple measuring lines (9) that are electrically insulated from one another are arranged about the core (4). Next to the end surface (7) of the core (4), multiple electrode surfaces (8), distributed spatially around the end surface (7), are provided at the end of the electrodes (3), each electrode surface being electrically conductively connected to an associated measuring line (9). The micro-electrode array (1) is passivated with a polymer-containing material, such as polyimide, in such a way that the electrodes (3) only electrically contact neuronal tissue with their electrode surfaces (8, E1, E2).