Background
Neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders arise from dysfunction within distributed brain circuits; however, current neurostimulation technologies remain limited in their ability to selectively target the neural populations responsible for these disorders. Although advances in neural interface technologies have dramatically increased recording and stimulation capabilities, new approaches are needed to enable precise, adaptive modulation of brain activity.
Our approach
This project focuses on developing a next-generation closed-loop neurotechnology platform for the precise control of cortical circuits. By integrating large-scale electrophysiological recordings, advanced computational methods and multipolar stimulation, the project aims to identify behaviourally relevant neural populations and selectively modulate their activity through closed-loop neuromodulation. The central objective is to achieve "4D control" of neural dynamics by combining spatial, temporal and neural population specificity. The platform will be evaluated through in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies, including demonstrations in animal models of epilepsy and decision-making. These studies will establish the feasibility of precision, adaptive neuromodulation and provide a foundation for the future development of targeted therapies for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.
Figure: Neuronal entrainment to a 10 Hz sinusoidal AC current using a Low-N multipolar stimulation system, in which stimulation electrodes are dynamically configured by the 4D Control multiplexing module to enable concurrent stimulation and neural recording.