Bioinspired flexible electronics for seamless neural interfacing and chronic recording

Abstract

Implantable neural probes are among the most widely applied tools for the understanding of neural circuit functions and the treatment of neurological disorders. Despite remarkable progress in recent years, it is still challenging for conventional rigid probes to achieve stable neural recording over long periods of time. Recently, flexible electronics with biomimetic structures and mechanical properties have been demonstrated for the formation of seamless probe–neural interfaces, enabling long-term recording stability. In this review, we provide an overview of bioinspired flexible electronics, from their structural design to probe–brain interfaces and chronic neural recording applications. Opportunities of bioinspired flexible electronics in fundamental neuroscience and clinical studies are also discussed.