Introduction: A long-term peripheral neural interface is an area of intense research. The use of electrode interfaces is limited by the biological response to the electrode material.
Methods: We created an electrode construct to harbor the rat sciatic nerve with interposition of autogenous adipose tissue between the nerve and the electrode. The construct was implanted for 10 weeks.
Results: Immunohistochemistry showed a unique laminar pattern of axonal growth layered between fibro-collagenous tissue, forming a physical interface with the tungsten micro-electrode. Action potentials transmitted across the intrerface showed mean conduction velocities varying between 6.99 ± 2.46 and 20.14 ± 4 m/s.
Conclusions: We have demonstrated the feasibility of a novel peripheral nerve interface through modulation of normal biologic phenomena. It has potential applications as a chronic implantable neural interface.
Keywords: bionic; injury; interface; nerve; prosthesis.
© 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.