Tactile edges and motion via patterned microstimulation of the human somatosensory cortex
Journal article, 2025
Intracortical microstimulation (ICMS) of somatosensory cortex evokes tactile sensations whose properties can be systematically manipulated by varying stimulation parameters. However, ICMS currently provides an imperfect sense of touch, limiting manual dexterity and tactile experience. Leveraging our understanding of how tactile features are encoded in the primary somatosensory cortex (S1), we sought to inform individuals with paralysis about local geometry and apparent motion of objects on their skin. We simultaneously delivered ICMS through electrodes with spatially patterned projected fields (PFs), evoking sensations of edges. We then created complex PFs that encode arbitrary tactile shapes and skin indentation patterns. By delivering spatiotemporally patterned ICMS, we evoked sensation of motion across the skin, the speed and direction of which could be controlled. Thus, we improved individuals' tactile experience and use of brain-controlled bionic hands.
Author
Giacomo Valle
University of Chicago
Chalmers, Electrical Engineering, Systems and control
Ali H. Alamri
University of Chicago
John E. Downey
University of Chicago
Robin Lienkämper
University of Pittsburgh
Patrick M. Jordan
University of Chicago
Anton R. Sobinov
University of Chicago
Linnea J. Endsley
University of Chicago
Dillan Prasad
University of Chicago
Michael L. Boninger
University of Pittsburgh
Jennifer L. Collinger
University of Pittsburgh
Peter C. Warnke
University of Chicago
Nicholas G. Hatsopoulos
University of Chicago
Lee E. Miller
Robert R. McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science
Northwestern University
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
Robert Gaunt
University of Pittsburgh
Charles M. Greenspon
University of Chicago
Sliman J. Bensmaia
University of Chicago
Science
0036-8075 (ISSN) 1095-9203 (eISSN)
Vol. 387 6731 315-322Subject Categories (SSIF 2025)
Neurosciences
Physiology and Anatomy
DOI
10.1126/science.adq5978
PubMed
39818881