Publication Date

12-2025

Date of Final Oral Examination (Defense)

10-10-2025

Type of Culminating Activity

Dissertation

Degree Title

Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering

Department

Biological Sciences

Supervisory Committee Chair

Benjamin Johnson, Ph.D.

Supervisory Committee Member

Clare Fitzpatrick, Ph.D.

Supervisory Committee Member

Shuqi Zhang, Ph.D.

Supervisory Committee Member

Landon Hamilton, Ph.D.

Abstract

Advancements in neuromodulation for treating neurological disorders increasingly rely on selective peripheral nerve stimulation rather than whole-nerve activation. Traditional approaches engage all fascicles, causing off-target effects such as involuntary muscle contractions and pain. To address these challenges, this research proposes a minimally invasive microdevice that integrates wireless galvanic impulse communication with an epineural multi-contact nerve cuff. This design facilitates high-throughput, low-power stimulation, recording, and data transfer. Development efforts include optimizing neural stimulation protocols, validating deep tissue galvanic transmission, and fabricating a multi-channel nerve cuff for stable electrode–tissue interfacing. In parallel, custom depth-controlled intramuscular arrays enable high-density electromyography (EMG) recording during muscle-specific peripheral nerve stimulation. Since conventional nerve cuffs are costly and time-intensive to produce, this strategy employs microfabricated cuffs engineered for precise spatial activation while encoding data via biphasic pulse timing. Preliminary in vivo results in a rodent model confirm effective stimulation and high-density EMG acquisition, demonstrating the system’s potential for precise neuromodulation. This technology establishes a foundation for advanced, minimally invasive therapies in bioelectronic medicine, potentially transforming the treatment of diverse neurological conditions.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.18122/td.2471.boisestate

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