A compact integrated device for spatially selective optogenetic neural stimulation based on the Utah Optrode Array

Robert Scharf, Christopher F. Reiche, Niall McAlinden, Yunzhou Cheng, Enyuan Xie, Rohit Sharma, Prashant Tathireddy, Loren Rieth, Keith Mathieson, Steve Blair

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution book

7 Citations (Scopus)
31 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Optogenetics is a powerful tool for neural control, but controlled light delivery beyond the superficial structures of the brain remains a challenge. For this, we have developed an optrode array, which can be used for optogenetic stimulation of the deep layers of the cortex. The device consists of a 10×10 array of penetrating optical waveguides, which are predefined using BOROFLOAT® wafer dicing. A wet etch step is then used to achieve the desired final optrode dimensions, followed by heat treatment to smoothen the edges and the surface. The major challenge that we have addressed is delivering light through individual waveguides in a controlled and efficient fashion. Simply coupling the waveguides in the optrode array to a separately-fabricated μLED array leads to low coupling efficiency and significant light scattering in the optrode backplane and crosstalk to adjacent optrodes due to the large mismatch between the μLED and waveguide numerical aperture and the working distance between them. We mitigate stray light by reducing the thickness of the glass backplane and adding a silicon interposer layer with optical vias connecting the μLEDs to the optrodes. The interposer additionally provides mechanical stability required by very thin backplanes, while restricting the unwanted spread of light. Initial testing of light output from the optrodes confirms intensity levels sufficient for optogenetic neural activation. These results pave the way for future work, which will focus on optimization of light coupling and adding recording electrodes to each optrode shank to create a bidirectional optoelectronic interface.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationOptogenetics and Optical Manipulation 2018
Place of PublicationBellingham, WA.
Number of pages9
Volume10482
ISBN (Electronic)9781510614499
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 14 Feb 2018
EventOptogenetics and Optical Manipulation 2018 - San Francisco, United States
Duration: 27 Jan 201828 Jan 2018

Conference

ConferenceOptogenetics and Optical Manipulation 2018
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Francisco
Period27/01/1828/01/18

Keywords

  • interposer
  • microLED
  • microLED array
  • optogenetics
  • optrode
  • optrode array
  • waveguide

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