Introduction to Neuroelectronic Engineering: Biological Foundations, Neurological Diseases & Brain Interface Technology

Neuroelectronic engineering combines neuroscience and electrical engineering, to record and interact with the electrical activity of the brain. This review introduces the field specifically for readers with a general scientific background who are looking to explore the industry. It first outlines the biological foundations of the nervous system, including how neurons communicate and how neural circuits operate throughout the body. It then examines how these systems become disrupted due to different neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, and depression. Furthermore, the review then investigates different technologies currently used within the industry, along with their applications and limitations. The review aims to give the reader a foundational understanding of the biological principes behind neurotechnology and the need for it, as well as how electronic systems specifically can both investigate and stimulate neural activity. It is a synthesis of published literature and does not present new experimental data.