The introduction of microelectronics to develop neuro devices with hundreds to thousands of closely spaced microelectrodes and embedded signal conditioning circuits for monitoring and modulating neural activity has significantly advanced the experimental capabilities for studying network dynamics in neural systems. This methodology is now widely used to investigate in-vitro models and has recently been adopted to create implantable devices for in-vivo neuroscience research in animal models.

In this lecture, we will review our contributions to the development of this cutting-edge toolbox for neural interfacing based on Active Pixel Sensor (APS) devices. This includes planar electrode array devices for in-vitro studies and, more recently, in-vivo implantable SiNAPS probes. To highlight the performance of monolithic CMOS-based multielectrode arrays and the opportunities arising from accessing an unprecedented number of single neurons, we will first present some of our experimental studies on in-vitro models, including a study on retinal physiology changes induced by the conditional deletion of the gene Bmal1 in GLAST-positive glial cells in adult mice. We will then discuss recent developments in implantable SiNAPS probes and advances in developing a multimodal platform for monitoring neural and behavioural activity in chronically implanted mice. Finally, we will report on ongoing efforts of the Crossbrain EIC project to develop self-standing wireless microscale devices for next-generation brain interfaces.

As will be discussed, these novel electrode array technologies offer new opportunities in neuroscience but also introduce challenges that need to be addressed, such as scalability, data dimensionality, electrode stability, and power consumption. We will present and discuss some of our research activities within ongoing projects aimed at addressing these challenges.

More information:

• https://www.iit.it/people-details/-/people/luca-berdondini