Research Progress
Zang Jiajia, Cui Yaya, Gao Yucheng, Yan Qiong, Wang Yue, Zhang Chunqing, Wang Haibin
Objective: To systematically summarize the research progress in brain-computer interface electrode materials with different modes of in vasion, and to analyze their requirements in terms of biocompatibility, mechanical compatibility, signal acquisition, coating performance, and regulation of drug-device combination products, thereby providing references for electrode material development, clinical translation, and scientific regulation. Methods: Recent domestic and international studies on brain-computer interface electrode materials were reviewed. Flexible substrate materials, conductive materials, structural design, surface modification, and application scenarios were summarized and compared. The performance characteristics, technical advantages, and safety evaluation factors of different types of electrode materials were analyzed. Results: Novel materials and structural designs, such as flexible polymers, conductive polymers, functional coatings, and drug-loaded coatings, can improve the electrode-tissue interface, reduce inflammatory responses, and enhance signal quality. Surface modification coatings for implantable electrodes can optimize mechanical matching and reduce implantation-induced injury and foreign body reactions. Drug-loaded coatings can regulate the inflammatory microenvironment through controlled drug release and improve signal stability, while challenges remain in terms of release controllability and long-term safety evaluation. For non-invasive electrodes, hydrogel electrolytes with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can improve the stability of the electrode-skin interface, enhance wearing comfort, and improve signal acquisition quality. Targeted safety and effectiveness evaluation should be carried out for the electrode products with drug-device combination characteristics described above according to the domestic regulations on drug-device combination products, which is essential for their clinical translation. Conclusion: Different types of brain-computer interface electrode materials have their own advantages and limitations. Future studies should focus on multi-material composites, biomimetic flexible structures, anti-inflammatory coatings, multi-drug multi-layer coatings, and standardized evaluation systems to promote the safety and effectiveness evaluation as well as the clinical translation of brain-computer interface electrode materials.