Nano Dimension Advances Neural Research with Micro 3D Printing

Manufacturing medical devices poses significant challenges due to their small size, precise dimensions, and intricate functionalities. Nano Dimension, a prominent manufacturer of 3D printers for electronics, recently undertook a biomedical project in collaboration with three prominent research centers in Canada and France. The project aimed to create a medical device using micro 3D printing technology, specifically designed for recording the neuronal activity of mice.

The device aims to explore neural mechanisms involved in somatosensory processing, including pain perception, temperature sensing, and body position. It was fabricated using the Fabrica Micro 3D printer, specifically engineered to meet the precise micrometer specifications of the 2.7mm wide medical device. The Fabrica Micro 3D printer also achieves an 11µm tolerance for electrodes, a capability already proven in producing plastic components for aerospace, automotive, and medical applications. In addition to its proprietary high-precision materials, the printer supports micro 3D printing with external resin options.

The material chosen was the biocompatible Fabrica Medical M-810, which was specially developed for implantation purposes and is non-toxic. (Photo Credits: Nano Dimension)

Manufacturing the device using micro 3D printing technology has many advantages. Among other things, the device could be produced within a week, whereas this would have taken several months using conventional manufacturing processes. According to Louison Brochoire from the University of Bordeaux, additive manufacturing overcomes numerous limitations. He added, “The high precision and resolution of Nano Dimension’s micro-3D printing technology, combined with the use of a biocompatible material, has enabled us to create a new tool necessary to achieve our main goal.”