Project description
Paving the way for multimodal neural implants
Neural implants are becoming increasingly popular for the assessment or treatment of neurological disorders. However, the current options available in the market are limited by their rigid form, which can cause physical, biological, electrochemical and other mismatches that make long-term implantation challenging. To overcome this issue, the E-DURA project, funded by the European Research Council, will initiate the technological translation of soft, multimodal neural implants called e-dura (electronic dura mater). This soft neurotechnology will address the shortcomings of existing neural implant technologies while remaining commercially viable and competitive. By facilitating manufacturing, growth and use of neural implants, this innovation has the potential to revolutionise the field.
Objective
E-DURA aims to assess the commercial viability of a new class of soft, multimodal neural implants called e-dura. Current technologies are rigid and present physical, electrochemical and biological mismatches that prevent prolonged periods of implantation. Our technology represents a significant improvement over state-of-art on all those criteria. Moreover, our extensive network of academics and industry professionals represents an advantage in commercializing e-dura, thereby addressing a market estimated to reach 11.8 billion Euro by 2020. Within E-DURA, we will prototype a device suitable for human implantation and build the business case around our innovation.
Fields of science
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Funding Scheme
ERC-POC - Proof of Concept GrantHost institution
1015 Lausanne
Switzerland