Nose Computer Interface for Scent Detection Animals

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and neurotechnology company Canaery have collaborated to develop a cutting-edge Nose Computer Interface (NCI) that revolutionizes scent-detection capabilities. This advanced technology enhances the ability of scent-detection animals to identify contraband such as explosives and narcotics, along with other crucial scents like biomarkers for neurological and infectious diseases. The NCI represents a significant advancement in security and health-related applications.

According to Massey from LLNL, the partnership with Canaery aims to create high-density neural interfaces for the innovative nose-computer interface technology. The collaboration leverages the expertise of both organizations to align with LLNL's national security mission. The NCI features an array with hundreds of electrodes per square millimeter, a remarkable achievement that pushes the boundaries of fabrication capabilities. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for scent detection and analysis.

The joint effort with Canaery focuses on designing and nanofabricating micro-electrocorticography arrays and high-density interconnects for polymer bioelectronic devices. A primary objective is to develop a 767-channel microelectrode array for implantation in rodents, enabling the digitization of olfactory signals from the brain. LLNL's involvement in this project expands its manufacturing capabilities, introducing a novel high-density nanofabrication process utilizing electron beam lithography to pattern nanometer-scale features.

The neural interface developed in collaboration with Canaery represents a significant milestone in the field of bioelectronics. By nanofabricating micro-electrocorticography arrays and high-density interconnects, the project aims to create a sophisticated 767-channel microelectrode array capable of capturing and processing olfactory signals from the brain. LLNL's pioneering work in high-density nanofabrication, utilizing advanced technologies like electron beam lithography, underscores the Lab's commitment to innovation and scientific excellence.

As the NCI technology continues to evolve, it holds immense potential for various applications beyond contraband detection. The ability to digitize and analyze olfactory signals opens up new avenues for research in neuroscience, disease detection, and security. The collaboration between LLNL and Canaery exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary partnerships in driving technological innovation and advancing scientific knowledge. The development of the NCI represents a significant step forward in leveraging cutting-edge bioelectronics for enhancing scent-detection capabilities and addressing critical societal challenges.