In February 2026, an international research consortium unveiled a groundbreaking brain implant—a slender, flexible device equipped with built-in microchannels, designed for precise, targeted drug delivery to distinct brain regions. Dubbed the "microfluidic axial electrode," this innovation emerged from a collaborative effort involving the Technical University of Denmark, the University of Copenhagen, and University College London.

Crafted from soft polymer optical fibers, the implant seamlessly conforms to the brain's natural contours and movements, significantly minimizing mechanical stress and potential tissue damage. Internally, it integrates a light-guiding core, eight microfluidic channels, and metal wires for electrophysiological recording. This multifunctional design allows for simultaneous photostimulation, electrical signal monitoring, and targeted drug administration at multiple depths along the implantation trajectory.

Successful validation in mouse models underscores its potential to revolutionize research into intricate brain functions, including epilepsy, memory formation, and decision-making processes. Moreover, it paves the way for precise, minimally invasive treatments for neurological disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. The findings have been published in the esteemed journal Advanced Science.