Project description
Bioinspired technology to improve implant performance
Neuroprosthetic systems, such as cochlear implants and deep brain stimulators, rely on implanted electrode arrays to restore lost nervous system functions. However, current metal-based electrodes face challenges such as stiffness, limited charge capacity and poor long-term integration with tissue. Aiming to radically improve the electrical and mechanical performance of electrode arrays, the ERC-funded COATARRAY project plans to develop a bioinspired hydrogel coating infused with conductive polymers. The proposed coating will enhance the electrical performance and flexibility of electrode arrays, making them more compatible with the body. If successful, this breakthrough could improve existing neuroprosthetic devices and enable new treatments for nervous system disorders.
Objective
Implanted electrode arrays are a key component of neuroprosthetic systems designed to restore functions lost through injury or degeneration of the nervous system. Electrode arrays currently used in clinical practice are made from metals (e.g. Platinum, PtIr alloys) encapsulated in silicone. These materials strike a compromise between electrical properties on one side and good tissue integration on the other. For example, the limited charge injection capacity and high mechanical stiffens of metal electrodes is implicated in challenges with long-term stability, mechanical failure, formation of a glial scar and electrode miniaturization.
In the COATARRAY project we will develop a specialized coating designed to radically improve the electrical and mechanical performance of electrode arrays. The coating is based on a bioinspired hydrogel material further endowed with electrical conductivity via incorporation of conductive polymers. The coating can be assembled on a variety of ready-made electrode arrays designed for different applications. In this project we will conduct a thorough electrical characterization of the coating as well as mechanical, insertion, sterilisation, cytocompatibility and accelerated ageing tests. In combination with analysis of the regulatory and commercial landscape, this project will establish an essential milestone towards clinical translation of the COATARRAY technology.
If successful, our approach to improving the performance of implanted electrode arrays can lead to better clinical outcomes for established neuroprosthetic systems (cochlear implants, deep brain and spinal cord stimulation) but also to the development of promising new treatments.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- natural sciences biological sciences neurobiology
- natural sciences chemical sciences inorganic chemistry transition metals
- natural sciences chemical sciences polymer sciences
- engineering and technology materials engineering coating and films
- medical and health sciences medical biotechnology implants
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Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2024-POC
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
01069 Dresden
Germany
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.