Principal Investigator
Réjean Fontaine
Sherbrooke University
Co-investigator
Christian Iorio-Morin
Sherbrooke University
Ana Suller Marti
University of Western Ontario
Walter Hader
University of Calgary
Project of $2,283,004 over 3 years
- Supported by CQDM through:
Ministère de l’Économie, de l’Innovation et de l’Énergie du Québec (MEIE) - And by co-funding partners:
– Carbon Cybernetics Canada Ltd.
– Brain Canada Foundation
The project in details:
Current treatments for refractory epilepsy—such as deep brain stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation, or responsive neurostimulation—reduce seizures by 50 to 70%, but do not fully eliminate symptoms. Patients still live in fear of unexpected seizures, which limits their independence: no driver’s licence, difficulty caring for children, or engaging in everyday activities like biking or swimming.
As part of this project, the research team aims to develop “Elatus”, a network of cortical microelectrodes designed to record neuronal activity with unmatched precision. Its technology, based on materials science research at the University of Melbourne and integrated circuit design at the University of Sherbrooke, enables the detection of brain criticality, an advanced indicator of seizure risk. Unlike traditional electroencephalogram systems, Elatus is designed to anticipate seizures and deliver a more effective closed-loop electrical therapy.
Patients implanted with Elatus could regain a normal life, seizure-free in most cases: return to work, drive again, and reclaim their autonomy. The project will also support the growth of Carbon Cybernetics in Quebec, creating high-skilled jobs in science and technology.
