Project Summary
Implantable neuroelectronic interfaces for recording and modulating brain activity can treat drug-resistant
neurological diseases; however, traditional electrode implantation requires invasive open-skull surgery and
poses considerable risks, such as intracortical bleeding and infection, and inevitably damages the brain.
To address these issues, this proposal aims to create a platform for endovascular delivery of chronically-
stable probes for robust recording and modulation of neural activity. In related work, Dr. Anqi Zhang has
demonstrated the feasibility of endovascular implantation and recording by developing flexible neural
probes that can be delivered into sub-100-micron cortical vessels to acutely record local field potentials
and single-unit activity in anesthetized rats. In this proposal, the capabilities of the endovascular probes
will be expanded by first achieving controllable implantation into both superficial and deep cortical vessels
adjacent to common therapeutic targets, followed by systematic studies and characterizations of endovas-
cular recording and stimulation, with a focus on single-unit activity in anesthetized rats, and finally manu-
facturing stretchable endovascular probes for long-term implantation and recording in awake, behaving
rats. This proposal is significant because it will develop a platform technology that can be readily extended
to the detection and treatment of other chronic and progressive neurological diseases, and serves as the
foundation for the clinical translation of minimally invasive neuroelectronic interfaces to neurology, neuro-
surgery, and interventional radiology practice. Dr. Zhang has suitable prior training in chemistry, materials
science, neuroscience, and bioelectronics, and has extensive experience in mentoring and teaching. Dur-
ing the K99 phase of this proposal, Dr. Zhang will be mentored by an experienced team of experts in neu-
rological diseases, cerebrovascular surgery, optogenetics and calcium imaging, in vivo electrophysiology,
and design and fabrication of stretchable devices. Stanford University also provides substantial resources
and support for her professional training. Dr. Zhang’s advisory team will oversee her research progress
and professional development through training in new techniques, clinical translation, job seeking and ne-
gotiation, scientific writing and communication, mentoring, and promoting diversity, equity and inclusion.
Upon completion of this mentored research project, Dr. Zhang will acquire the knowledge and skills neces-
sary to use her strengths in physical sciences and engineering to develop minimally invasive chronic neu-
ral interfaces, and the professional skills that will be extremely beneficial for her transition to become an
independent investigator.