Neuronal Networks and Interfaces Laboratory

Members of the NNIL and NIL who are working toward improving clinically approved implantable electrode arrays

Adult mouse DRG neurons cultured on transparent MEA

Microchannel structures for the development of co-culture platforms

Extracellular neuronal activity from cultured neuronal networks

Correlating cortical neural activity with fine motor behavior

Comparative performance of novel microelectrode coatings such as ruthenium oxide (RuOx)

Single unit recording from ultra-small microelectrode arrays

The Neuronal Networks and Interfaces Laboratory is part of the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science and is comprised of faculty and students from the Department of Bioengineering at the University of Texas at Dallas. The laboratory aims to leverage advances in microscale technology, material science, and imaging to develop novel in vitro and in vivo neural interfaces. The focus of the laboratory currently centers on the following questions:

How can we create long-lasting, robust implantable microelectrode arrays? Can novel probes that exhibit ultra-small dimensions, flexibility, or shape change demonstrate improved recording and tissue response?
What are the molecular mechanisms that lead to diminished performance of implantable microelectrode arrays in vivo? Can pharmacological approaches improve performance?
How can sensory neurons be used in vitro to understand the molecular basis for chronic pain? Can sensory neurons on multi-well microelectrode arrays serve as a phenotypic screening paradigm for non-opioid therapeutics?

To address these questions, we collaborate with investigators from within UTD and outside who have expertise in chemistry, material science, neuroscience, and imaging.

The Neuronal Networks and Interfaces Laboratory is directed by Joseph J. Pancrazio, PhD, Professor of Bioengineering.