Keying Chen

Implantable brain electrode technology is able to provide unique understandings of various brain disease models. It also can function as an effective tool to therapies of neurodegenerative diseases. While the initial insertion of electrode breaks the blood brain barrier, the induced neuro-inflammation and chronic foreign body responses impedes the success of long term implantation. Non-neuronal brain cells, especially activated microglia and reactive astrocyte, are critical in the hemostasis and healing process. My interest is to explore the role of oligodendrocyte in neuro-inflammatory regulation by using dynamic in vivo imaging tool. I got my B.S.E in Biomedical Engineering at Case Western Reserve University where I worked in Dr. Jeffrey Capadona’s Lab. The lab focuses on studying various aspects of intracortical microelectrodes' performance. I worked with Dr. Evon Ereifej to improve the biocompatibility of brain implantable electrodes. The project explored the effect of topographical modification, a geometrical design based on brain matrix structure, on the intensity of neuro-inflammation and recording performance at acute and chronic post-implantation in vivo.