# Optimization & Pre-clinical Testing of Implantable, In-Line High Density 32-Channel Connector

> **NIH VA I01** · LOUIS STOKES CLEVELAND VA MEDICAL CENTER · 2020 · —

## Abstract

The aim of this proposal is to optimize the design and materials and to perform
necessary pre-clinical testing of next-generation miniature, high-density multi-channel
connectors suitable for chronic implantation in a patient's body. These `HD Connectors' will be
part of systems that are used, for example, to treat disorders of the peripheral nervous system.
Maladies that could be treated in this way are problems with walking, such as after a stroke, and
restoring natural sensations in a phantom limb after amputation, among other examples.
 In this study, we will use custom-microfabricated, solid-filled connector bodies to
facilitate interconnections within and among long-lasting neural interfaces. Custom
encapsulation and assembly methods for the miniature connectors, developed with pilot
funding, will be optimized. Under this proposal, we will fabricate variants of new HD connectors
for mating with existing micro-neurostimulator designs. We will also evaluate the long-term
biocompatibility and bio-stability of these connectors through both benchtop experiments and
animal surgical trials. The data collected will then facilitate our application to the FDA to do
follow-on clinical studies of medical devices incorporating this HD connector technology.
 The relationship between the proposed effort and the patient care mission of the VA is
that these improvements are expected to increase the interchangeability of components of
implantable neurostimulation systems for rehabilitation that have high channel counts. This will
improve the safety and inter-operability of new devices under development, such as implantable
walking aids and devices for restoring natural sensation in amputated limbs.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10045519
- **Project number:** 5I01RX002789-02
- **Recipient organization:** LOUIS STOKES CLEVELAND VA MEDICAL CENTER
- **Principal Investigator:** Douglas B. Shire
- **Activity code:** I01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** VA
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** —
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2019-05-01 → 2022-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10045519

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10045519, Optimization & Pre-clinical Testing of Implantable, In-Line High Density 32-Channel Connector (5I01RX002789-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10045519. Licensed CC0.

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