Neural engineering

Neural engineering (also known as neuroengineering) is a discipline within biomedical engineering that uses engineering techniques to understand, repair, replace, enhance, or otherwise exploit the properties of neural systems. Neural engineers are uniquely qualified to solve design problems at the interface of living neural tissue and non-living constructs.

History

Neural engineering is an emerging discipline that relies on the methods and tools of electrical engineering, computer science, applied physics, mathematics and neuroscience. This field is currently being driven by the advancement in biological knowledge together with the development of increasingly sophisticated technological tools.

Applications

Neural engineering has a wide range of theoretical and practical applications. These include the development of neuroprosthetics, devices that can substitute a motor, sensory or cognitive modality that might have been damaged as a result of an injury or a disease. Other applications include the development of neural networks, brain–machine interfaces, and the study of neuroplasticity.

Challenges

Despite the promising potential of neural engineering, there are several challenges that need to be addressed. These include the biocompatibility of neural implants, the longevity of these devices, and the development of more sophisticated algorithms for decoding and encoding neural signals.

Future Directions

The future of neural engineering is promising, with the potential to significantly impact the fields of neuroscience, medicine, and engineering. Future research directions include the development of new materials for neural implants, the design of more sophisticated brain–machine interfaces, and the exploration of the ethical implications of neural engineering.

See also

• Biomedical engineering
• Neuroprosthetics
• Brain–machine interface
• Neuroplasticity