LLNL Neural Technology
At Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), our Neural Technologies Group is creating the next generation of clinical- and research-quality neural interfaces. We are exploring the intersection between microfabrication technologies and biocompatible materials to develop high-density, fully implantable, microelectrode arrays. We are developing new multifunctional devices capable of interfacing with neural tissue electrically, chemically, and optically. The goal of our research is to gain a fundamental understanding of neuroscience, treat a variety of debilitating neurological disorders (such as Parkinson's, depression, and epilepsy), and restore lost neural functions such as sight, hearing, and mobility. LLNL's engagement in neural technology underscores our mission of enhancing national security through the development of medical technologies that will reduce the economic burden of disease to our country.
LLNL has a long history in bioengineering systems. In the late 1990s, the Department of Energy established a Chemical and Biological Weapons Nonproliferation Program, and we invested in developing capabilities to detect and quickly respond to a biological or chemical attack. The Handheld Advanced Nucleic Acid Analyzer(HANAA) and the Autonomous Pathogen Detection System (APDS) are just two of the biodetection systems that resulted. Since then, LLNL has continued to build on its expertise and capabilities in biological sciences and microtechnology for applications beyond biodetection. In the early 2000s, LLNL was tapped to help develop what came to be the world's first retinal prostheses. Today, we continue to leverage our years of experience for applications into a variety of biological applications.
Here is an overview of our technology (video).
The Neural Technologies Group is part of the Center of Bioengineering at LLNL.
