Recent Advances in Intracortical Neural Interfaces for Freely Moving Animals: Technologies and Applications

Abstract

Intracortical neural interfaces directly connect brain neurons with external devices to achieve high temporal resolution and spatially precise sampling of neural activity. When applied to freely moving animals, this technology provides in-depth insight into the underlying neural mechanisms for their movement and cognition in real-world scenarios. However, the application of implanted devices in freely moving animals is limited by restrictions on their behavioral freedom and physiologic impact. In this paper, four technological directions for ideal implantable neural interface devices are analyzed: higher spatial density, improved biocompatibility, enhanced multimodal detection of electrical/neurotransmitter signals, and more effective neural modulation. Finally, we discuss how these technological developments have been applied to freely moving animals to provide better insight into neuroscience and clinical medicine.