Core Insights - An international research team has developed a new type of brain implant called the microfluidic axial electrode, which can deliver drugs to different areas of the brain. This breakthrough is expected to advance research on complex brain functions such as epilepsy, memory, and decision-making, and open new pathways for precise treatment of neurological diseases [1][2]. Group 1: Device Design and Functionality - The microfluidic axial electrode is designed to distribute functions along its axis, allowing for simultaneous optical stimulation, electrical signal recording, and drug delivery at multiple depths along the implantation path, unlike traditional end-point devices [1]. - The electrode is made from soft polymer optical fibers, which closely match brain tissue, reducing mechanical damage and chronic rejection, and features a specially angled tip for minimal tissue disruption during insertion [1][2]. Group 2: Manufacturing Process and Experimental Validation - The manufacturing process of the microfluidic axial electrode involves heating and stretching a large polymer rod into ultra-fine fibers with a diameter of less than half a millimeter, integrating a light-conducting core and eight microfluidic channels [2]. - Successful experiments on mice demonstrated that the implanted microfluidic axial electrode allowed for independent monitoring of electrical activity in both the cortex and hippocampus, as well as the precise injection of different drugs or chemicals across brain regions within a distance of 3 millimeters [2].