A new generation of brain implants

The problem

During brain tumour surgery, surgeons need to remove as much of the tumour as possible while protecting important areas of the brain involved in functions such as movement and speech. Current brain-monitoring electrodes can be limited by their size, flexibility and ability to detect detailed brain signals.

What the researchers did

Researchers investigated whether a new type of brain implant made from graphene could provide more detailed information about brain activity during tumour surgery.

The ultra-thin and flexible graphene interface was placed on the surface of the brain during surgery. It was used to record electrical activity and help researchers identify differences between healthy and tumour tissue, while also mapping areas involved in important brain functions.

What they found

The graphene interface was able to capture brain signals with high resolution and distinguish between healthy and cancerous tissue with very fine precision. Initial results from the first-in-human study also showed a favourable safety profile, with no device-related adverse events reported in the patients treated.

Why this research matters

More precise brain mapping could help surgeons remove brain tumours while better protecting healthy areas responsible for important functions such as movement and speech.

This research represents an important step towards using graphene-based technology in brain surgery and could ultimately support more precise, personalised approaches to treating brain tumours.