The research was conducted in collaboration with Sungkyunkwan University and KIST, and findings were published in Nature Electronics in September 2024.

The SMCA sensor features a catechol-conjugated alginate hydrogel for strong adhesion and a self-healing polymer that conforms to the brain's curved surface at body temperature.

A research team led by Professors Son Donghee and Shin Mikyung has developed a groundbreaking soft cortical device designed to transform the treatment of epilepsy and other neurological disorders.

The device, known as the Shape-Morphing Cortical-Adhesive (SMCA) sensor, adheres closely to the brain's surface, ensuring stable monitoring even during transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) stimulation.

tFUS neurostimulation is a promising non-invasive method that precisely stimulates the brain without causing permanent damage, but it requires continuous monitoring of brain activity for effective treatment.

Using the SMCA sensor, the researchers implemented a closed-loop seizure control system that detects early signs of seizures and adjusts tFUS treatment in real-time.

In experiments with a rat model of epilepsy, the SMCA sensor successfully recorded brain activity during tFUS without interference, demonstrating its effectiveness.

Dr. Kim emphasized the potential for early seizure detection and personalized stimulation protocols, which could enhance mapping and targeted interventions for epilepsy in clinical settings.

The system demonstrated the ability to suppress seizures, indicating potential for personalized and adaptive treatment strategies.

Existing cortex-interfacing devices often struggle due to high stiffness and low adaptability, which can lead to poor tissue-device interfaces and inaccurate brain signals.

Current treatment options for intractable epilepsy, such as surgical resection, pose significant risks and challenges, prompting the exploration of less invasive treatments like neuromodulation.

Epilepsy affects over 65 million people globally, with approximately 20% to 30% of patients suffering from intractable epilepsy that does not respond to standard medications.