A study published in the journal 'Nature Biotechnology' presents an innovative neurotechnology based on graphene with the potential for transformative impact in neuroscience and medical applications. This research, led by the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), is being developed for therapeutic applications through the spin-off company INBRAIN Neuroelectronics, member of CataloniaBio & HealthTech.
Following years of research under the European Graphene Flagship project, ICN2 spearheaded in collaboration with the University of Manchester the development of EGNITE (Engineered Graphene for Neural Interfaces), a novel class of flexible, high-resolution, high-precision graphene-based implantable neurotechnology. The results published in Nature Neurotechnology aim to contribute with innovative technologies to the blooming landscape of neuroelectronics and brain-computer interfaces. This innovative approach addresses a critical gap in neurotechnology, which has seen little advancement in materials over the last two decades. The development of EGNITE electrodes has the capacity to place graphene at the forefront of neurotechnological materials.
Next step: clinical translation
The EGNITE technology described in the Nature Nanotechnology article has been patented and licensed to INBRAIN Neuroelectronics, a spin-off based in Barcelona from ICN2 and ICREA, with support from IMB-CNM (CSIC). The company, also a partner in the Graphene Flagship project, is leading the translation of the technology into clinical applications and products. Under the direction of CEO Carolina Aguilar, INBRAIN Neuroelectronics is gearing up for the first-in-human clinical trials of this innovative graphene technology.
The technology presented builds on the legacy of the Graphene Flagship, a European initiative that during the last decade strived to advance European strategic leadership in technologies that rely on graphene and other 2D materials. Behind this scientific breakthrough is a collaborative effort led by ICN2 researchers Dr Damià Viana (now at INBRAIN Neuroelectronics), Dr Steven T. Walston (now at University of Southern California), and Dr Eduard Masvidal-Codina, under the guidance of ICREA Prof. Jose A. Garrido, leader of the ICN2 Advanced Electronic Materials and Devices Group, and ICREA Prof. Kostas Kostarelos, leader of the Nanomedicine Lab at the ICN2 and at the Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health at the University of Manchester (UK).
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