Message in an implant

A micro-sensor that could be injected into the brain of those suffering from motor neurone disease and transmit data to a computer is being developed at Birmingham University.

In its most severe form, motor neurone disease can cause lesions in the upper brain stem, preventing signals from travelling between the brain and muscles. This leaves sufferers with normal mental functions, but unable to communicate with the outside world.

In a presentation at the Euro-NanoForum 2005 in Edinburgh, Jon Spratley of Birmingham’s School of Engineering claimed signals that would have previously controlled muscles could be harnessed to operate communications technology such as artificial speech programs, or even the movement of an electronic wheelchair.

Sufferers of epilepsy or Parkinson’s disease can have electrodes implanted in their brain to control their conditions, but this requires a major operation with risks of infection and complication.

Using micro-engineering techniques, Spratley is designing an unpowered passive sensor package that is small enough to be injected using a needle with a diameter of up to 1.5mm, removing the need for an operation.