Bidirectional modulation of neural plasticity by self-powered neural stimulation

Abstract Devices to perform neural stimulation rely on batteries or permanent power outlet for power supply and delivery of electrical stimulation. Bulky system frame and inflexible component design are the limiting factors to improve portability and compatibility. Here, we report design and use of self-powered neural stimulation that can harvest energy from body motion and perform bidirectional modulation of neural plasticity. The system builds on flexible materials and integrates piezoelectric nanogenerator for energy-harvesting, signal modulation component for dual-modality output of stimulation pulses and implantable electrodes for delivery of stimulation to the neural tissue. When the neural stimulation is delivered in vivo in the mouse hippocampus, two forms of neural plasticity changes, long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), have been successfully delivered. The self-powered system demonstrates that integrated neural stimulation design driven by energy harvested from biological motions in the environment is suitable for modulation of neural plasticity, plasticity-based therapy or brain-machine interactions.