Neural interfaces by hydrogels

Hydrogel neural interface mimics the living environment of neurons mechanically, chemically, and electrically, incurs much less immunochemical rejection than commonly used metallic electrodes (platinum and silver). It readily records local field potentials and individual spikes in vivo. In optogenetic experiments, a single fiber of the hydrogel can function as both an optic fiber and an ionic conductor, co-locating the site of laser stimulation and electrical recording.