Innovative Kirigami-Inspired 3D Neuroprobes Advance Brain Research

Researchers from the Institute of Biological Information Processing (IBI-3) at Forschungszentrum Jülich, in collaboration with partners across Germany, have unveiled a groundbreaking method for developing three-dimensional (3D) neuroprobes. This innovative technique, inspired by the Japanese art of kirigami, allows for the creation of flexible and high-density microelectrodes capable of recording brain activity not only at the surface but also deep within neural tissues. The findings of this significant advancement were published in the prestigious journal Advanced Materials on June 16, 2025.

Kirigami, which involves both folding and cutting paper, enables the construction of intricate 3D designs without the need for adhesives. This novel approach to microelectrode design represents a paradigm shift in the field of neuroscience, as it allows for simultaneous recording of electrical signals from various layers of the brain. According to Dr. Marie Jung, lead author of the study and a doctoral researcher at IBI-3, “Our approach allows us to fold up to 128 structures in one go—efficiently and without toxic materials.” This scalability is viewed as a crucial milestone towards the clinical application of neurotechnology.

The 3D microelectrode arrays (MEAs) crafted from ultrathin, flexible polymer films utilize a bespoke thermal molding technique known as "matched-die forming." This process transforms flat films into upright, freestanding structures, each narrower than a human hair and equipped with multiple electrodes for comprehensive neural recordings. Dr. Viviana Rincón Montes, corresponding author and scientist at IBI-3, remarked, “What continues to surprise me is how well a technique designed for macroscopic shaping can be scaled down to work so precisely at the microscopic level.”

In laboratory tests, these probes demonstrated robust electrochemical performance, folding accuracy, and mechanical durability. They were subsequently trialed on brain slices from epilepsy patients and in live mice, successfully capturing signals both at the surface and from deeper brain regions. The technology is particularly promising for applications in brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and future neurotechnological therapies.

The implications of this research extend beyond mere data collection. With the ability to record high-resolution brain signals, the technology could facilitate targeted stimulation in regions such as the retina or visual cortex, thus aiding in the development of visual prosthetics and other therapeutic applications. Dr. Rincón Montes elaborated, “We are now working to further optimize the electrode coating and to miniaturize the circuitry, aiming to create an implant that is as small, light, and efficient as possible.”

While clinical application remains a goal for the future, the groundwork laid by this research marks a significant advancement in neurotechnology. The integration of cutting-edge materials and techniques opens new avenues for understanding and interfacing with the human brain, potentially transforming treatment methodologies for neurological disorders.

In summary, the development of 3D neuroprobes inspired by kirigami not only enhances the capabilities of neural recording but also paves the way for innovative therapeutic strategies. As the field of neuroscience continues to evolve, such advancements could lead to a future where brain-computer interfaces become commonplace, revolutionizing the interaction between technology and the human brain.