A Chinese research team has introduced a robot that places ultra-thin electrodes into animal brains with unprecedented precision. Developed by the Institute of Automation at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the system supports flexible electrode implantation for brain science research. This innovation recently received preliminary acceptance as part of Shenzhen’s flagship brain analysis and simulation infrastructure project. Researchers describe the robot as a vital tool for advancing neurotechnology. It promises to accelerate breakthroughs in brain-computer interface systems across the country.
The robot features several proprietary technologies that allow it to handle diverse electrode types with exact precision. Scientists built the system to work with flexible electrodes that are thinner than a strand of human hair. This ability allows the device to conduct safe and accurate implantation in small animals, including rodents and primates. Yu Shan, the lead scientist on the project, said the robot ensures successful electrode placement without damaging sensitive brain structures. Flexible electrode implantation now enters a new era of accuracy and safety.
In addition, the robot operates with an intelligent sensing system that provides micron-level control in three dimensions. It inserts electrodes just 10 microns thick and 100 microns wide into targeted brain regions. This level of detail prevents accidental contact with blood vessels during the procedure. Consequently, scientists can carry out flexible electrode implantation without risking injury to vital brain tissue. This precision plays a key role in preserving animal health during long-term experiments.
Following the implantation, the electrodes begin transmitting neural signals to connected microchips for analysis. These chips process the information and translate brain signals into commands for external devices. Moreover, scientists can use the electrodes to send small electrical currents that activate or suppress specific brain functions. This dual capability supports a wide range of research applications. Through flexible electrode implantation, researchers gain access to both real-time observation and active intervention.
The robot already supports several types of filamentary electrodes used in experimental neuroscience. Researchers have successfully tested the system on various animals in lab conditions. They now plan to expand its use across additional brain research projects nationwide. The goal is to broaden the scientific understanding of brain networks and develop practical brain-computer applications. Flexible electrode implantation remains central to these expanding efforts.
Yu Shan highlighted the potential of this technology to elevate China’s global standing in brain science and artificial intelligence research. The robot enables detailed tracking of brain activity and can contribute to new treatments for neurological disorders. Experts view it as a critical step toward decoding complex mental processes. As a result, this system positions China as a frontrunner in the race to understand and simulate the human brain. Flexible electrode implantation offers the foundation for these long-term goals.
Ethical concerns around animal welfare remain important in this type of research. However, the precision of the robot helps reduce surgical trauma and improves post-operative recovery for animal subjects. Scientists believe that this technology makes experiments both more humane and more effective. They expect the robot to support larger-scale experiments in brain mapping and cognitive simulation. With flexible electrode implantation leading the charge, China’s brain science revolution continues to gain speed.
