This podcast's purpose is to bring together the field of neuroprosthetics / brain machine interfaces / brain implants in an understandable conversation about the current topics and breakthroughs. We hope to complement scientific papers on new neural research in an easy, digestable way. Innovators and professionals can share thoughts or ideas to facilitate 'idea sex' to make the field of brain implants a smaller and more personal space.
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Paul Goode: Implantable Glucose Monitoring—and a Neural Interface Twist
Monday, October 20, 2025 • Duration 18:26
In this episode, Paul Goode (Glucotrack) dives into the next wave of continuous glucose monitoring: an active, fully implantable CGM designed to deliver long-term, pacemaker-style reliability without external wearables. We discuss first-in-human progress, why implantables may change diabetes care at home, and a fascinating neural angle—how similar chemistry and form factors could be adapted to epidural glucose sensing and even paired with neural recording electrodes to capture metabolic and neural data together. If you care about closed-loop systems, chronic implants, or bridging bioelectrochemistry with neurotech, this one's for you.
Top 3 Takeaways:
Epidural glucose sensing works long-term: Initial short animal tests showed continuous glucose measurement in the epidural space, and a follow-up multi-month study delivered phenomenal, stable results.
Epidural placement matches CGM performance: The sensor sits on top of the dura mater in the epidural space (effectively an interstitial environment) and, in studies run alongside a conventional subcutaneous CGM, showed comparable timing and responsiveness. Since the brain runs on glucose, this is surprising but logical.
Seamless SCS integration is feasible: The epidural glucose sensor uses a simple potentiostat and three-electrode setup, adding minimal electronics to existing spinal cord stimulator platforms. The team aims to generate first-in-human data to catalyze partnerships with SCS companies.
1:15 Do you want to introduce yourself better than I just did?
2:15 Why was a glucose sensor company invited to come on the Neural Implant Podcast?
7:15 How many electrodes on a device would need to be used in order to measure glucose in the epidural space?
8:45 How do your glucose measurements compare with Continuous Glucose Monitors?
12:30 What's the company's next step?
16:00 Is there anything you would want of the Neural Implant community?
Fabio Boi on Corticale's Ultra-Dense, Minimally Invasive Brain Interfaces
Monday, August 18, 2025 • Duration 28:43
In this episode of the Neural Implant Podcast, I speak with Fabio Boi, Co-Founder and CSO of Corticale, an Italian neurotech company that is redefining the landscape of brain-computer interfaces. Corticale is pioneering a new generation of minimally invasive, CMOS-based neural implants that can record from thousands of neurons simultaneously—introducing their flagship technology, SiNAPS.
Fabio walks us through how SiNAPS achieves single-cell resolution recordings via its 1024-electrode array, enabling high-fidelity access to both action potentials and local field potentials deep within cortical tissue. We also explore the significance of modular probe design, ultra high-density sensors, and the potential clinical and research applications of such a breakthrough platform.
This episode is sponsored by Black Swan IP – patent strategy and legal support for neurotech innovators. Learn more at www.blackswan-ip.com/
Top 3 Takeaways:
Corticale's SiNAPS probes miniaturize electronics directly beneath each electrode, enabling every channel to independently record signals. Unlike traditional systems that require pre-selection or external r eadout bottlenecks, this design supports simultaneous, high-resolution recording across the entire array.
Moving from hundreds to thousands of recording channels exposes neural complexity that was previously missed. For brain-computer interfaces, this data richness significantly improves decoding accuracy and performance.
Startups should prioritize building the right team even before finalizing the technology. As Fabio reflects, having a team with the right expertise early on can help avoid costly mistakes, save time, and steer the company in the right direction—something he wishes he had done from the beginning.
0:45 Do you want to introduce yourself better than I just did?
3:00 What are some of the features of your technology?
5:30 What kind of cutting edge fabrication are you using?
Ben Woodington on Coherence Bio's Revolutionary Cancer Reprogramming Approach
Monday, August 11, 2025 • Duration 23:43
In this episode of the Neural Implant Podcast, we sit down with Ben Woodington, co-founder of Coherence Bio, a groundbreaking medical technology company pioneering a new frontier in cancer treatment. By integrating neurotechnology, neurobiology, and machine learning, Coherence is building a platform that doesn't just fight cancer—it manages it in real time.
Ben shares how Coherence is moving beyond the traditional "cut, burn, poison" model of oncology, and instead focusing on precision neuromodulation to monitor and control cancer progression—offering hope for 24/7 adaptive treatment with fewer side effects and better quality of life. Their platform, SOMA, is the first in a suite of technologies aimed at achieving this ambitious goal.
We also explore the emerging field of cancer neuroscience, the role of BCIs and digital neural interfaces in oncology, and how Coherence's research is predicting brain metastasis, decoding neural signatures of gliomas, and applying electrotherapy to fight tumors.
This episode is sponsored by Black Swan IP – patent strategy and legal support for neurotech innovators. Learn more at www.blackswan-ip.com/
Top 3 Takeaways:
Coherence is targeting glioblastoma as its first application due to its urgent unmet clinical need—patients face a median survival of just 14 months, and the standard of care hasn't evolved in over two decades. Despite the broader applicability of their technology across brain cancers, focusing on this aggressive, treatment-resistant form gives them a high-impact entry point to demonstrate the value of real-time, adaptive neuromodulation.
Coherence is exploring two groundbreaking mechanisms for treating brain cancer: directly stimulating cancer cells to inhibit division, and disrupting the neural-cancer feedback loop that drives tumor growth. Inspired by work from Stanford's Michelle Monje lab, they aim to block the synaptic connections between neurons and tumor cells—cutting off the electrical signals and neurotrophic support that fuel cancer proliferation.
Dr Christian Wende on European IP Strategy, Medtech Patents & the UPC
Monday, July 14, 2025 • Duration 39:02
In this episode, we dive into the world of European intellectual property and medtech innovation with Dr. Christian Wende, a German and European Patent Attorney specializing in medical technology at DTS. With a background in mechanical engineering, a Ph.D. in liver dialysis research, and a Master of Laws in European IP law, Christian brings a rare and powerful combination of technical, legal, and clinical insight.
We explore how startups and investors should think about IP strategy in Europe, the impact of the new Unified Patent Court (UPC), the nuances between U.S. and EU patent landscapes, and how IP due diligence is handled during VC rounds and M&A activity. Whether you're a founder, investor, or innovator in medtech or neurotech, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
This episode is sponsored by Black Swan IP – patent strategy and legal support for neurotech innovators. Learn more at www.blackswan-ip.com/
Top 3 Takeaways:
When looking for a good IP lawyer, don't try to search blindly—ask founders who've successfully done it before. You'll often hear the same trusted names. And even if those lawyers are conflicted, they'll usually refer you to a trusted colleague. The IP community is small and highly referral-driven.
Becoming a qualified German and European patent attorney is a long and rigorous journey—often taking over 14 years. It includes a PhD, a three-year legal apprenticeship, two bar exams (German and European), and additional certification for the Unified Patent Court. Only about 25% of German candidates pass the European exam on their first try.
Investors expect transparency and a plan—especially when IP litigation risk is involved. Hiding potential legal issues is a red flag that can derail multimillion-dollar investments, particularly in later-stage rounds. For high-stakes backers, surprise IP battles are deal-breakers, not details.
1:30 What is a patent and how is it different in Europe vs the US?
Inside AIMD: Building the Future of Implantable Devices with Nicolas Barabino & Antoni Ivarra
Monday, July 7, 2025 • Duration 21:41
In this special episode recorded after the workshop in Barcelona, I talk with Nicolas Barabino and Antoni Ivorra, two of the key organizers behind the 2025 Active Implantable Medical Devices (AIMD) Workshop. We dive into the vision behind this growing event, which brings together top researchers, engineers, clinicians, and entrepreneurs to explore the cutting edge of implantable medical devices.
Nicolas and Antoni share insights on the evolution of AIMD technologies, the role of multidisciplinary collaboration, and how this annual workshop is shaping the next generation of innovators. We also touch on the challenges that startups face in the space—regulatory hurdles, IP strategy, and the importance of academic-industry partnerships.
Whether you're a student curious about the field or a seasoned expert navigating the complexities of medical implants, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways from the heart of Europe's neurotech and medtech community.
This episode is sponsored by Black Swan IP – patent strategy and legal support for neurotech innovators. Learn more at www.blackswan-ip.com/
Top 3 Takeaways:
This year's AIMD workshop struck a successful balance between clinical research and industry—50/50 over two days. Feedback from both local and international attendees praised the diverse topics, especially the sessions on soft electrodes and innovative implantable technologies.
The AIMD Workshop stood out for its diverse programming—not just cutting-edge technology talks like those on soft electrodes, but also valuable discussions on market strategy, startup resources, and IP, including insights from a patent lawyer on what investors really look for. This blend of technical and business perspectives resonated strongly with attendees.
At events like AIMD, aim for just one meaningful 10–15 minute conversation per day—enough to be memorable and lay the groundwork for a follow-up. Quality over quantity builds lasting connections.
Chad Andresen on Lunosa's Injectable Neurostimulator and Lessons from Stimwave
Monday, June 30, 2025 • Duration 47:48
In this episode, we sit down with Chad Andresen, Chief Business Officer of Lunosa, to explore a groundbreaking approach to treating obstructive sleep apnea. Lunosa is developing a self-expanding, injectable neurostimulator that aims to replace invasive facial surgeries with a minimally invasive, high-impact solution — tapping into a $10 billion market. Chad also reflects on his time at Stimwave, a pioneering neuromodulation company that saw both innovation and controversy. He shares insights from testifying against Stimwave's former CEO, lessons learned from the company's collapse, and how those experiences shape Lunosa's vision and execution today.
This episode is sponsored by Black Swan IP – patent strategy and legal support for neurotech innovators. Learn more at www.blackswan-ip.com/
Top 3 Takeaways:
User feedback can vary drastically by region — while patients in Mexico and Europe reported positive results, U.S. participants were far more critical and vocal, revealing major usability issues that had been previously overlooked.
A major red flag in a startup is when experienced, well-tempered professionals leave quickly and repeatedly — it often signals deeper cultural or leadership issues that young founders may overlook until it's too late.
Lunosa developed a novel "nerve net" implant that works like a fishing net—capturing multiple nerve branches responsible for tongue movement in sleep apnea—offering selective stimulation to activate helpful muscles while avoiding unwanted ones.
1:30 Do you want to introduce yourself better than I just did?
3:00 How did your career start?
5:15 How did the founding of StimWave look like?
7:15 How did that ramp up look like?
12:15 How did things go wrong?
Frederik Ceyssens and the ReVision Implant Team: Building a Visual Cortical Prosthesis to Restore Sight
Monday, June 16, 2025 • Duration 46:46
In this special on-location episode recorded in Leuven, Belgium, we sit down with the co-founders and technical leaders of ReVision Implant—Frederik Ceyssens (CEO), Maarten Schelles (CTO), and Laurens Goyvaerts (CSO). The team shares their journey developing a high-density, intracortical visual prosthesis aimed at restoring vision for the blind. From developing reliable insertion technology to achieving long-term biocompatibility in nonhuman primate models, ReVision Implant is at the forefront of neurotech innovation. Tune in to hear about their challenges, breakthroughs, and what's next in the race to cure blindness through brain stimulation.
This episode is sponsored by Black Swan IP – patent strategy and legal support for neurotech innovators. Learn more at www.blackswan-ip.com/
Top 3 Takeaways:
Future users of ReVision's visual prosthesis express diverse goals—from navigating unfamiliar cities independently to recognizing familiar faces—highlighting the need for customizable solutions with both wide fields of view and high resolution.
The team is exploring adaptive algorithms that could allow users to toggle between broad, low-resolution views and focused, high-resolution modes—such as reading letters or recognizing faces—offering personalized visual strategies even if only a few thousand stimulation points are achievable.
Restoring vision is one of the most challenging neurotech applications—far beyond simply upgrading existing DBS systems—but taking that bold leap sets ReVision Implant apart in a space where few dare to innovate at this scale.
1:00 Do you want to introduce yourselves and your company?
6:30 What is the device and how is it different than other companies?
11:15 How many pixels or phosphenes are you expecting to get?
Julio Martinez-Clark: Accelerating Clinical Trials Through Latin America with Bioaccess
Monday, May 26, 2025 • Duration 36:50
In this episode, we speak with Julio Martinez-Clark, CEO and co-founder of Bioaccess, a contract research organization helping Medtech and Biopharma startups slash months off their clinical timelines. With a focus on Latin America, Bioaccess enables early feasibility and first-in-human trials to be conducted faster, more affordably, and with high-quality data suitable for FDA and EU submissions. Julio shares how their global site network—built over 20 years—helps startups navigate regulatory hurdles, reduce costs, and de-risk innovation, all while improving patient lives in emerging markets.
"The sites and IRBs in Latin America follow international ICH-GCP guidelines—Good Clinical Practice standards set by the World Health Organization. If you're a professional in clinical research, these are the standards you adhere to. As a sponsor, it's your responsibility to ensure that the sites you select, after rounds of interviews and vetting, comply with ICH-GCP. There's also a new development in the region: the Global Clinical Site Certification, an organization based in London that accredits clinical research sites internationally. They're expanding across the Americas, and countries like Colombia and Panama have been especially receptive. For example, we're currently working on certifying CVAC, a site network in Panama."
For FDA market clearance, sponsors typically need a large, U.S.-based pivotal study. But the FDA may accept up to 30% of that data from international sites—if it follows ICH-GCP standards. First-in-human trials in places like Colombia or Panama can help demonstrate safety and efficacy, supporting an FDA IDE application for a pivotal U.S. study.
Many FDA-approved therapies never reach Latin America, simply because manufacturers focus on larger markets like the U.S., Europe, or Japan. Clinical trials provide patients in Latin America with early access to innovative treatments they might otherwise never receive.
0:45 Do you want to introduce yourself better than I just did?
Nathan Piland of Nunex: From Medtech Concept to Commercialization
Monday, April 14, 2025 • Duration 42:41
In this episode of the Neural Implant Podcast, we're joined by Nathan Piland, CEO of Nunex, a consulting firm that specializes in helping MedTech companies navigate the complex journey from concept to commercialization. With over two decades of experience across regulatory strategy, product development, and market access, Nathan shares invaluable insights into the critical steps for MedTech startups and established companies looking to succeed in today's competitive landscape. Tune in as we discuss the unique challenges of the neurotech industry, strategic consulting for MedTech ventures, and how Nunex is helping companies grow and scale through a holistic, tailored approach.
Top 3 Takeaways:
"Some people are saying that the brain is becoming the new heart, referring to the decades-long focus on cardiovascular research and devices, from mitral valve replacements to aortic repairs. However, advancements in heart treatments are becoming incremental, while the brain remains a vast unknown. In fact, we may know less about neuroscience than we do about the heart. This is exciting, though, as it means we have fewer biases about how to solve problems in the brain. There's a lot of activity in areas like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, with ongoing efforts to improve patients' lives."
"The reason we formed the company was to partner with founders and leaders in the MedTech industry. Like many listeners of this podcast, I've been on the other side, constantly receiving sales pitches. We believe we can add the most value by highlighting key insights and trends within the industry."
"If I were the CEO of a startup, I would consider doing most of the work in another geography for a fraction of the cost, while still obtaining high-quality data. Then, I would come to the US for a follow-up study. Even if you needed to do a 50-patient study to confirm results with a US-based population to satisfy the FDA, it would be much cheaper, faster, and more cost-effective than conducting a large-scale trial here in the US with all the associated costs and challenges."
0:45 Do you want to introduce yourself better than I just did?
1:30 How did you get into medtech consulting?
Maurits Ortmanns: Advancements in ASIC Design for Neurotech Implants
Monday, April 7, 2025 • Duration 42:50
In this episode, we welcome Prof. Dr.-Ing. Maurits Ortmanns, a leading expert in ASIC design and professor at the University of Ulm, Germany. With a distinguished career in microelectronics, Dr. Ortmanns has contributed extensively to the development of integrated circuits for biomedical applications. He shares insights into the critical role of ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) design in advancing neurotech implants, focusing on low-power, high-speed circuits that are essential for optimizing the performance and reliability of these devices. Dr. Ortmanns also discusses the challenges and future of circuit integration in neurotechnology.
Top 3 Takeaways:
"Each ASIC is very low in cost because the development cost is spread across millions of units. The actual production cost is minimal; the primary expense lies in the development time until the first chips are produced and ready for manufacturing."
"For an inexperienced engineer, it typically takes about six months to a year to design the blueprint for the chip. Then, depending on the manufacturer, it takes an additional four to six months for the actual fabrication of the ASIC. Finally, you would need another one to two months for testing, so the total turnaround time for a small chip is approximately one and a half years."
"Let's take the example of a neuromodulator. You need recordings or data from neurons and stimulation data going to the neurons, so you essentially have these two components. Then, you encounter challenges like stimulation artifacts. One person might focus on eliminating the stimulation artifact in the recording channel. That requires additional algorithms or hardware, and the data needs to be digitized, which is another task. You may also have someone working on a compression algorithm and building digital circuitry to compress the raw input data. Then, there's the data interface, power management, and wireless energy delivery. Each person works on their specific innovation, and if everything is well-planned and lucky, all these pieces can come together to create a complete system. However, sometimes you simply don't have a breakthrough idea for power management or communication."
6:30 What application do you see this being useful for?
12:45 What are the upper limits of this technology?
16:00 So you guys are working only on the hardware side of things?
16:45 What kind of data processing do you need for this?
18:45 What do the next 5 years look like for you?
20:15 What kind of patient population would you be targeting?
21:00 What is it like to be based in Italy?
24:00 Is there anything that we didn't talk about that you wanted to mention?
Implants will be placed during patients' scheduled tumor resection surgeries, minimizing additional intervention. Rather than performing separate procedures, the team collaborates with surgeons during planned tumor debulking to implant devices, enabling safety and neural recording studies without altering standard care pathways.
0:45 Do you want to introduce yourself better than I just did?
2:00 Is that what OptoBio was doing as well?
3:15 What is the mechanism of action for curing cancer?
6:00 How are you treating the cancer?
8:15 Is this a localized treatment around the implanted area only?
22:45 Do you want to talk about the willingness of the patients in Latin America to take part in these trials?
29:45 When should medical device developers reach out to you?
33:30 Is there anything else that we didn't talk about that you wanted to mention?
5:15 Why did you decide to work with startups?
7:15 What are the 7 dimensions and what are the order of these?
12:45 What does a typical workflow look like with a company?
19:30 Is neurotech different or unique compared to other types of medtech?
23:45 Do you want to talk about your newsletter and conference also?
30:00 And you'll have another conference this year too?
32:00 Malaysia sounds great but are there any drawbacks to working there?
36:45 With the new administration what is your prognosis on funding and medtech development?
41:15 Anything that we didn't talk about that you wanted to mention?
0:45 Do you want to introduce yourself better than I just did?
3:15 What is integrated circuit design?
7:30 What are ASIC's? How are they used in neurotech?
10:15 How does the million dollar fab cost get split into each chip?
11:30 What are typical functions of ASICs?
14:30 Why does the development time take so long?
18:15 So most of the libraries you use are your own and you don't use external ones?
19:45 To what extent is this modular?
22:15 What is the timeline of each of the sections of development?
27:45 How does it work managing IP from your company and your University?
30:45 Are there any Open Source initiatives in Europe for ASICs?
33:00 How many people in the world do this kind of work?
35:45 What is a good pathway for those looking to get into this kind of work?
38:45 How early should companies start talking about designs?
40:15 If you 10x the money could you make it go faster?
41:30 If people want to reach out how do they do so?
42:15 Anything else that you wanted to mention?
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