Fig. 2

There are several important dimensions to consider in the design of peripheral nerve interfaces (PNI) with improved performance. 1) The electrode density can be improved through advances in device fabrication and manufacturing. The resolution of recording can also be improved by new form factors and materials that anchor the device in close proximity to the target tissue. 2) Electrodes can be fabricated on dynamic and smart materials that adopt unique shapes, respond to stimuli, or manage the in vivo tissue response. 3) PNI can be fabricated on flexible and stretchable substrates to match the mechanical properties of the target tissue. Elastomeric substrates such as silicones can match the properties of tissues in the spinal cord. Substrate materials with increased compliance will be required to match the mechanical properties of nerves in the PNS with smaller diameters. This figure is adapted from the following sources and used with permission: Cutrone et al. (copyright 2015, Institute of Physics)(Cutrone et al., 2015); Minev et al. (copyright 2015, American Association for the Advancement of Science) (Minev et al., 2015)