Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Implantable polymer microelectrode arrays (pMEAs) offer stable integration with neural tissue but are not widely available. An academic resource model is explored as a means of standardizing and disseminating pMEAs. METHODS: The resource is based on a multi-project wafer model, originally developed in the semiconductor industry, allowing the simultaneous microfabrication of pMEAs with arbitrary designs. This model leverages innovations in design, manufacturing, and packaging to produce custom penetrating, surface, and cuff-type form-factors in batch and at low cost. Device quality is verified through benchtop testing and chronic electrophysiological recording in rats. RESULTS: To date, over 1000 pMEAs (more than 50 designs) were provided to 45 academic labs. Implanted penetrating arrays in the hippocampus achieved high quality, chronic recordings from freely moving rats. Surface arrays reliably recorded electroencephalogram signals from the cortex and evoked potentials from the somatosensory cortex in awake rats. CONCLUSION: Efficient production of custom pMEAs for research is possible through a unique resource model inspired by the semiconductor industry. SIGNIFICANCE: Greater access to pMEAs enables researchers to conduct new experiments across different regions of the nervous system, accelerating discoveries.