A team of Wayne State University researchers was awarded $330,000 from the National Science Foundation to develop a 3-D neural probe. Their aim is to develop an implantable device that will suppress tinnitus, a neurological disorder that causes a ringing or hissing in the ears that affects more than 250 million people worldwide. Yong Xu, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, and Jinsheng Zhang, associate professor and associate research director of otolaryngology, associate professor of communication sciences and disorders, said the project, "A novel 3-dimensional neural probe technology combining electrical and chemical interfaces," is based on a flexible skin structure and simple folding procedure. The technology will enable the integration of micro-channels for neurotransmitter-based chemical stimulation and local delivery of various drugs for biocompatibility improvement.

http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2011/06/20/wayne-state-profs-get-grant-for-tinnitus-treatment-tech/
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http://www.physorg.com/wire-news/70043017/wayne-state-university-researchers-win-grant-from-the-nsf-to-tar.html