DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF CONDUCTING POLYMER MODIFIED ELECTRODES FOR NEUROLOGICAL APPLICATIONS

Abstract

Electrodes have the potential to be applied to neurological signal detection, neurotransmitter detection, or neurological stimulation, but there are many factors to consider. These factors include the electrochemical properties desired for the intended use of the electrode, its biocompatibility and its long term stability. The class of organic compounds known as conducting polymers has shown characteristics that would make them well suited for this application but further investigation is needed to refine the properties of the electrodes (electrochemical, physical, chemical) and completely determine their suitability in neurological applications.

In this study we present a comparative study of a series of pyrrole and thiophene based conducting polymers and their ability to be optimized for neurological sensing and stimulation applications. This study outlines the effect various electropolymerization parameters have on the electrochemical and physical properties of the resulting conducting polymer modified electrodes. We then examine their biocompatibility through in vivo studies. Additionally the ability of these conducting modified electrodes to detect neurotransmitter concentrations through fast scan cyclic voltammetry is investigated. The knowledge gained through this study helps further progress towards improved electrodes that could help with a variety of neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, ADHD and epilepsy, among many others.