An Implantable, Multi-Functional Neural Probe based on Printed Microscale Optoelectronic Devices

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Important Dates

Conference:

Aug. 18-20, 2018

Full Paper Due: Jul. 20, 2018

Abstract Due: Jul. 20, 2018

Audience Registration Due:
Aug. 18, 2018

Presentations of The Int'l Symposium on Photonics and Optoelectronics (SOPO 2016)

● An Implantable, Multi-Functional Neural Probe based on Printed Microscale Optoelectronic Devices
Author(s)
Xing Sheng
Affiliation(s)
Tsinghua University
KEYWORDS
Implantable, Multi-Functional Neural Probe
ABSTRACT
Understanding neural structures and functions is important to resolve the mystery of the complex brain. Compared to conventional electrophysiological methods, optical methods have many advantages since light can be used to stimulate and detect specific neuronal activities by genetic encoding. Recent progresses in the design of mechanics and materials have given birth to flexible and stretchable electronics and photonics, enabling the integration of rigid inorganic devices with soft, elastic and curved biological systems. Here we present an implantable neural sensing system that integrates high performance, microscale photonic devices including LEDs and photodetectors. A blue LED serves as a light source to excite the genetically encoded calcium indicator (GECI). A photodetector with a specifically designed band selective optical coating is used to probe the GECI fluorescent signal with high sensitivity. A yellow LED allows us to activate the chloride pump halorhodopsin, which inhibits local neural activities. These devices are implanted deeply into the brain, realizing close loop monitoring and manipulation of neural activity in vivo. Such an integrated, deeply implanted and microscale optoelectronic system provides new insights on interactions between optical and neural systems.