Title : Enhanced cell-electrode interactions via Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-Polydopamine (PEDOT-PDA) neural interfaces for next-generation BCIs
Abstract:
Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) represent cutting-edge technologies in neuroscience, facilitating direct communication between the brain and external devices. Despite considerable progress, achieving biocompatible, reliable, and high-performance neural interfaces remains a critical challenge. In this study, we present the development of advanced neural interfaces using polydopamine-doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT-PDA) coatings. The successful fabrication of PEDOT-PDA films was verified through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) indicated brain-like hierarchical microstructures for the synthesized PEDOT-PDA films. Compared to conventional PEDOT-based materials, the PEDOT-PDA coatings exhibited superhydrophilic properties with a contact angle of less than ~10°, enhancing tissue-electrode interactions and significantly improving neural signal recording quality. Biocompatibility assessments via MTT assays demonstrated 97% cell viability and high proliferation rates on PEDOT-PDA-coated electrodes. Live/dead staining confirmed superior cell viability compared to uncoated electrodes. FESEM analysis revealed enhanced attachment of the cells with expanded morphologies on the PEDOT-PDA surfaces. Molecular dynamics simulations indicated that the PDA dopant improves cell-electrode interactions by facilitating adsorption of cell membranes’ proteins. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy showed a reduction in impedance by over 90% for PEDOT-PDA-coated electrodes compared to commercial gold electrodes. These findings underscore the potential of PEDOT-PDA coatings in advancing material innovations for BCIs and improving the performance of neural signal recording systems.
