Robert T Kennedy

Title: **Innovations of Robert T Kennedy: Pioneering Microdialysis Technology**

Introduction

Robert T Kennedy, an esteemed inventor based in Ann Arbor, MI, has made significant contributions to the field of microfabrication and neurochemical monitoring. With four patents to his name, Kennedy has been at the forefront of innovations that enhance the capabilities and applications of microdialysis probes in research settings.

Latest Patents

One of Kennedy's latest patents focuses on the microfabrication of a microdialysis probe with a nanoporous membrane. This advanced probe design addresses several limitations of conventional dialysis probes, which typically measure over 220 µm in diameter and suffer from restricted design flexibility due to assembly methods. By employing a microfabrication technique using silicon, Kennedy has developed probes that are only 45 µm thick and 180 µm wide, significantly minimizing their cross-sectional area by 79% compared to the smallest conventional probes.

These microfabricated probes, which feature a buried U-shaped channel and a nanoporous membrane created through deep reactive ion etching, were tested in vivo on live rats. The results showed reliable detection of neurotransmitters, including dopamine and acetylcholine, during sampling. Notably, an injection of amphetamine resulted in a remarkable 43-fold increase in dopamine, evidencing the probe's effectiveness. This innovative approach provides higher spatial resolution and disrupts less tissue than traditional probes, while also presenting opportunities for further functional integration, such as electrodes or additional channels.

In addition to this, Kennedy holds a patent related to the controlled coalescence of gas phase segmented droplets, facilitating efficient flow management and material processes within conduits.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Robert T Kennedy has collaborated with esteemed institutions, notably the University of Michigan. His tenure at New Objective, Inc. has further solidified his reputation as a leading innovator in his field.

Collaborations

Kennedy has worked alongside accomplished colleagues, including Qiang Li and Gary A Valaskovic, to drive advancements in microfabrication and applications in neurochemical monitoring.

Conclusion

Robert T Kennedy’s contributions through his innovative patents are paving the way for advancements in medical science and neurochemistry. His ongoing work not only enhances our understanding of complex neurobiological processes but also sets the foundation for future technologies that could further revolutionize the biomedical field.