Integrated optical neural probe
Inventors
Jamieson, Brian • Mateo, Jennette
Assignees
Publication Number
US-10188304-B2
Publication Date
2019-01-29
Expiration Date
2031-07-25
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Abstract
In certain embodiments, a neural probe comprises a substrate comprising elongated shanks for penetrating neural tissue, each comprising a proximal end and a distal end; at least one optical source integral to the neural probe for illuminating the neural tissue; and microelectrodes located proximate the distal end of the elongated shanks for monitoring neuronal activity. In certain embodiments, a method of monitoring neuronal activity comprises implanting the neural probe into a test subject such that the elongated shanks protrude into neural tissue of the test subject; illuminating the neural tissue with the at least one optical source; and measuring neuronal activity in response to illuminating the neural tissue. In certain embodiments, a device comprises a semiconductor chip; at least one optical source integral to the semiconductor chip; and sensor elements integral to the semiconductor chip for collecting data responsive to light emitted from the at least one optical source.
Core Innovation
The invention provides systems and methods for integrating optical sources such as LEDs, lasers, quantum dots, or photonic crystal light sources directly into semiconductor-based neural probes. These probes use elongated shanks to penetrate neural tissue, incorporate at least one optical source for localized illumination, and feature microelectrodes positioned near the distal end of the shanks to monitor neuronal activity. Integration methods include flip chip bonding, lithographic patterning, or direct silicon microfabrication, resulting in a highly compact device capable of both delivering optical stimuli and recording resultant electrical or chemical activity in neural tissue.
This integrated approach addresses the problems of size, cost, and complexity associated with traditional diagnostic and neural stimulation equipment, particularly those that require bulky, external light sources coupled with optical fibers. It streamlines the process of optical stimulation and electrical recording, enabling selective stimulation and monitoring of neuronal activity without cumbersome external apparatus or labor-intensive assembly steps. By enabling optical stimulation to be combined with simultaneous recording in a tetherless, implantable format, the invention greatly simplifies neuroscience experiments and point-of-care diagnostic procedures.
Claims Coverage
There is one independent claim in the patent, capturing a neural probe with integrated optical, mechanical, and optical coupling features.
Neural probe with headstage-integrated high-intensity LED and optical coupling
A neural probe comprising: - A headstage containing a high-intensity LED. - One or more elongated shanks made from MEMS silicon, each comprising: - At least one optical fiber. - At least one groove. - At least one SUB (SU8) waveguide with each optical fiber aligned in a groove to a waveguide. - The LED is connected to each optical fiber via a coupler constructed of ceramic, stainless steel, and brass, and the coupler is fixed onto the LED using a UV-curable adhesive.
The claim coverage centers on an integrated neural probe system with a MEMS silicon shank, on-probe optical fibers and waveguides, and a headstage-integrated high-intensity LED optically coupled to the probe using a specific coupler configuration.
Stated Advantages
Reduces the cost, size, and complexity of diagnostic and neural stimulation devices by integrating optical sources directly into the neural probe.
Enables selective optical stimulation and accurate monitoring of neuronal activity in freely behaving animals without the need for tethers or cumbersome external apparatus.
Facilitates implanting neural probes more easily in animal or human test subjects by integrating one or more optical sources directly in the probe.
Simplifies experiments requiring both optical stimulation of targeted neurons and recording of responses from those and other neurons.
Documented Applications
Selective stimulation of small groups of neurons for treatment of Parkinson's disease or other neurological disorders.
Recording neuronal activity in studies of learning, memory, and brain plasticity involving genetically modified neurons responsive to light.
Use as a biosensor or biosentinel device where cultured neuronal circuits respond to toxins, with optical interrogation and electrical monitoring.
Integration into point-of-care medical diagnostic devices such as flow cytometers, microfluidic devices, and other biomedical microsystems requiring localized light activation and response measurement.
Use in devices for scientific study or as sentinal devices for biodetection, such as nerve gas detectors using cultured sensitive neurons.
Application in endoscopes, catheters, pacemakers, or devices for selectively activating cardiac, gastrointestinal, or other electroactive cells.
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