FUNMANIA (306707)

  https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/306707

  FP7 (2007-2013)

  Functional nano Materials for Neuronal Interfacing Applications

  ERC Starting Grant - Systems and communication engineering (ERC-SG-PE7)

  polymer sciences  ·  ophthalmology  ·  nano-materials  ·  implants

  2012-10-01 Start Date (YY-MM-DD)

  2018-09-30 End Date (YY-MM-DD)

  € 1,499,560 Total Cost

  Description

Recent advances in nano technologies provide an exciting new tool-box best suited for stimulating and monitoring neurons at a very high accuracy and with improved bio-compatibility. In this project we propose the development of an innovative nano-material based platform to interface with neurons in-vivo, with unprecedented resolution. In particular we aim to form the building blocks for future sight restoration devices. By doing so we will address one of the most challenging and important applications in the realm of in-vivo neuronal stimulation: high-acuity artificial retina. Existing technologies in the field of artificial retinas offer only very limited acuity and a radically new approach is needed to make the needed leap to achieve high-resolution stimulation. In this project we propose the development of flexible, electrically conducting, optically addressable and vertically aligned carbon nanotube based electrodes as a novel platform for targeting neurons at high fidelity. The morphology and density of the aligned tubes will mimic that of the retina photo-receptors to achieve record-high resolution. The most challenging element of the project is the transduction from an optical signal to electrical activations at high resolution placing this effort at the forefront of nano-science and nano-technology research. To deal with this difficult challenge, vertically aligned carbon nanotubes will be conjugated with additional engineered materials, such as conducting polymers and quantum dots to build a supreme platform allowing unprecedented resolution and bio-compatibility. Ultimately, in this project we will focus on devising materials and processes that will become the building blocks of future devices so high density retinal implants and consequent sight restoration will become a reality in the conceivable future.

  Complicit Organisations

1 Israeli organisation participates in FUNMANIA.