Designing an MR compatible stereotaxic system for targeted drug delivery in sheep brain

alternate text Figure 1: Future clinical concept for our technology.

Project

Non-invasive, focal drug delivery in a controlled, reliable manner can lead to breakthroughs in the treatments of brain disorders. To address this, we recently developed a unique technology that can concentrate small molecules in specific brain regions by orders of magnitude more efficiently than systemic drug administration [https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-18059-7].

To translate this technology to the clinic, we recently received a Bridge Discovery award which will involve further development of our technology to large animals and eventually to humans. Within the scope of this sub-project, we will design an MR compatible stereotaxic frame for sheep brain. The system will allow both Focus Ultrasound targeting and implanting of the custom flexible electrodes developed in our lab to sheep brain. The student will therefore have a unique opportunity in developing and testing a complex system for diverse and interdisciplinary applications.

 

Tasks:

  • - Familiarizing with Focused ultrasound equipment and implantation of custom flexible electrodes.

  • - 3D design of stereotaxic positioning system in SolidWorks or similar platforms and simulating the mechanics of the stereotaxic system. The student will get help for the design but also will be welcomed to put own ideas.

  • - Implementing the design through help from ETH machine shop and Yanik Lab facilities.

  • - Testing and calibrating the stereotaxic system using in vitro and ex vivo experimental setups.

 

Pre-requisites:

  • - Strong motivation.

  • - Experience in 3D drawings and building mechanical systems.

  • - Experience in programming motors (optional).

 

Benefits:

Joining a highly interdisciplinary team in the fields of translational neuroscience and precision medicine for brain disorders. Experiencing Focused Ultrasound technology and soft electrodes.

 

Project duration: 6-9 months, flexible start, and end dates.

 

Neurotechnology Group | D-ITET | ETH Zurich

Prof. Fatih Yanik

Contact Person: Mehmet Ozdas

Email: zdasm@ethz.ch

Irchel Campus Y17-L68

Winterthurerstra­­­­­­­­se 190

8057 Zurich

back
back