The effects of chronic intracortical microstimulation on neural tissue and fine motor behavior.

摘要: Objective. One approach to conveying sensory feedback in neuroprostheses is electrically stimulate neurons the cortex. For this be viable, it critical that intracortical microstimulation (ICMS) causes minimal damage brain. Here, we investigate effects of chronic ICMS on neuronal tissue across a variety stimulation regimes non-human primates. We also examine each animal's ability use their hand—the cortical representation which targeted by ICMS—as further assay possible damage. Approach. implanted electrode arrays primary somatosensory cortex three Rhesus macaques and delivered four hours per day, five days week, for six months. Multiple were parameters behavior. Parameters included current amplitude (10–100 μA), pulse train duration (1, 5 s), duty cycle (1/1, 1/3). then performed range histopathological assays near tips both stimulated unstimulated electrodes assess dependence parameters. Main results. While implantation residence did cause significant damage, had no detectable additional effect; furthermore, animals exhibited impairments fine motor control. Significance. Chronic may viable means convey as does not tissue.