Bridging Neural Engineering and Neurobiology Edge Effects to Divergent Innovation

Neuroelectronic interfaces in the central, peripheral and autonomous nervous systems are the bedrock of brain-computer interface, neuromodulation and bioelectronics medicine treatments that can provide functional restoration in persons with motor and sensory dysfunction, therapies in neuronal disorders as well as symptom relief in persons with intractable neural diseases and alternatives to pharmacological treatment in widespread diseases. While many devices have been deployed in the clinical environment, there are still many engineering and neuroscientific challenges to realizing the full potential of neuroelectronic interfaces and their translation into broad clinical practice that range from stable, life-long recording electrode interfaces to deciphering the neural code and achieving closed-loop neuromodulation on a patient- and circadian-specific scales.

The 2022 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Neuroelectronic Interfaces is focused on catalyzing innovation at the confluence of multiple disciplines for engineering and utilizing next generation of interfaces. In ecology, "edge effects" are defined as the unexpected and divergent innovations that occur at the physical boundary of multiple ecosystems. The neuroelectronic interface field has long benefited from the edge effect at the boundaries of neuroscience, electrical engineering, material science, and neurosurgery. To bring brain-machine interface and neuromodulation technologies to the clinic, there was widespread collaboration and interdisciplinary training between these experts. The next generation of neuroelectronic interfaces will require yet a larger effort in bridging disparate scientific and engineering fields. Therefore, this GRC on Neuroelectronic Interfaces will bring together basic materials research armed with emerging fundamental neurosciences knowledge, and a multi-disciplinary team of leading experts in cellular neuroscience, brain pathology, neuro-technology and materials science as well as experts from different medical disciplines (for example neurosurgery, hand surgery, internal medicine, orthopedics) in order to discuss emerging strategies for engineering chronically useful and reliable neural interfaces as well as uncover new applications for existing technologies on the frontiers of scientific discovery and strategic pathways for translational research into clinical applications.