C11184: Neuroelectronic Interface for a Multichannel Vestibular ProsthesisNovelty:
The current invention is a vestibular prosthesis using a neuroelectronic interface to allow normal balance and head rotation sensation in patients suffering abnormal vestibular function.
Value Proposition:
In normal individuals, sensory organs within the inner ear modulate activity on vestibular nerve branches in order to provide the central nervous system with sensation of rotational head motion and gravity. Vestibular sensory input drives compensatory reflexes that stabilize gaze and posture to maximize clarity of vision during head movements. Individuals who have suffered damage to their vestibular organs, commonly due to ototoxic medications, experience disabling loss of visual acuity and balance. Recently, interest has grown in creating vestibular prostheses that can restore lost function to severely affected patients. Several promising studies using a single-channel device have been reported. Scientists at Johns Hopkins have designed a single chip neural interface for a multichannel vestibular prosthesis (MVP) intended to restore sensation of head rotation to individuals who suffer chronic imbalance and unstable vision. It has the following advantages:
• Achieves high compliance voltages necessary for nerve stimulation
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• Uses industry standard fabrication process
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• Subcircuits included to minimize the power dissipation of the design
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• Robust operation with a maximum compliance voltage of 15 volts
Technical Details:
Johns Hopkins researchers have developed a single chip neuroelectronic interface for multichannel vestibular prostheses. The design for the next generation implantable vestibule interface improves on previous designs by integrating most of the analog functionality (electrode current drivers and control, current monitor and switching matrix) as a single chip. The chip is designed to directly interface to existing microcontroller and gyro/acceleration sensors. It uses novel circuit designs to achieve both low power consumption and high compliance voltages necessary for nerve stimulation while using an industry standard fabrication process.
Looking for Partners:
To develop and commercialize the technology as a multichannel vestibular prosthesis for restoration of head motion sensation in individuals disabled by inner ear dysfunction.
Stage of Development:
Pre-Clinical
Data Availability:
Under CDA/NDA
Publications/Associated Cases:
Not available at this time
