Towards a comprehensive view of the neural‐electrode tissue interface: image analysis for neural engineering applications (153.8)
Abstract
Biocompatibility issues limit the longevity of neural interfacing devices designed to restore sensory‐motor function. However, a comprehensive systems‐level understanding of the device‐tissue interface is lacking. We combined immunohistochemistry, high‐resolution digital slide scanning and computational image analyses to evaluate the response associated with floating microelectrode arrays implanted into feline dorsal (sensory) or ventral (motor) lumbosacral roots (n = 16 animals; 2 implants/animal). Paraffin‐embedded sections were stained with a variety of chemical (hematoxylin/eosin, Nissl/Luxol fast blue) and antibody‐based [NF200 (axons), S100 (Schwann cells), vimentin (fibroblasts, endothelial cells, astrocytes), NeuN (neuronal nuclei), caspase‐3 (apoptotic cell death), MAC387 (monocytes/macrophages), GLUT1 (glucose transporter)] stains. Digital images were analyzed using NearCyte software. Intensity of the inflammatory reaction as a function of distance from the electrode‐tissue interface was quantified. Neural degeneration in the spinal cord proximal and distal to the site of array implant was compared to the contralateral, non‐implanted side. Neuronal density and nearest neighbor relationships were mapped and electrode performance metrics considered. This work provides a more comprehensive, quantitative profile of the neural electrode‐tissue interface. Ongoing work aims to incorporate multiplexed immunohistochemistry such that more in‐depth social interactions can be assessed in the context of the tissue architecture.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2014
- Source ID
- 10.1096/fasebj.28.1_supplement.153.8
Entities
People
- Andrew Lesniak
- Anthony Demetris
- Carlos E Castro
- Christi Kolarcik
- Robert A. Gaunt
- Xiaorui Cui
Organizations
- Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
- Magee-Womens Research Institute
- University of Pittsburgh