Dense Packed Drivable Optrode Array for Precise Optical Stimulation and Neural Recording in Multiple-Brain Regions

Abstract

The input–output function of neural networks is complicated due to the huge number of neurons and synapses, and some high-density implantable electrophysiology recording tools with a plane structure have been developed for neural circuit studies in recent years. However, traditional plane probes are limited by the record-only function and inability to monitor multiple-brain regions simultaneously, and the complete cognition of neural networks still has a long way away. Herein, we develop a three-dimensional (3D) high-density drivable optrode array for multiple-brain recording and precise optical stimulation simultaneously. The optrode array contains four-layer probes with 1024 microelectrodes and two thinned optical fibers assembled into a 3D-printed drivable module. The recording performance of microelectrodes is optimized by electrochemical modification, and precise implantation depth control of drivable optrodes is verified in agar. Moreover, in vivo experiments indicate neural activities from CA1 and dentate gyrus regions are monitored, and a tracking of the neuron firing for 2 weeks is achieved. The suppression of neuron firing by blue light has been realized through high-density optrodes during optogenetics experiments. With the feature of large-scale recording, optoelectronic integration, and 3D assembly, the high-density drivable optrode array possesses an important value in the research of brain diseases and neural networks.

A Review: Research Progress of Neural Probes for Brain Research and Brain–Computer Interface

“…A drivable part which can lead the probe tip to break through the wrap and continue to function becomes a good choice. The drivable optoprobes are inspired by the micro-actuated structure of the electrodes [ 118 , 119 ], which can be customized according to the different optical components ( Figure 3 a,b) [ 97 , 116 ] or simpler 3D-printed molds [ 120 , 121 , 122 ]. The 3D-printed mold can also precisely control the adjustment step by twisting of the screw, shown in Figure 3 c, and the minimum step is as low as 320 μm [ 122 ].…”

“…Moreover, three-dimensional optical probe arrays [ 123 ] allow measurements of neural activities across the whole region within an engineered 3D neural tissue, as well as measurements of the local modulations of the neural networks at a specific site [ 97 ]. Combining the 3D array with drivable structures assembled together is expected to enable long-term chronic recordings across different brain regions and depths ( Figure 3 d) [ 97 , 120 , 121 ].…”

“…( A ): Explosive view of four 2D high-density probes; ( B ): Schematic diagram of the completely constructed 3D high-density drivable optrode array. Reprinted with permission from [ 121 ]. Copyright 2021 American Chemical Society.…”

A High‐Precision, Low‐Voltage Pulsed Field Ablation Device with Capability of Minimally Invasive Surgery

“…In the field of bioelectronics, Pt-black is chosen as a common electrode modification material for implantable applications because of its biocompatibility. [40,41] All electrodes are modified with Pt-black by the electroplating method to enhance electrochemical properties (Figure 2A). Note S2, Supporting Information, shows details of the electrochemical modification and characterization.…”

New Era of Electroceuticals: Clinically Driven Smart Implantable Electronic Devices Moving towards Precision Therapy

“…To do this, implantable multielectrode array-based devices are promising tools. Cellular spatial resolution, sub-millisecond-time precision, both spiking and low-frequency bioelectric signals from the electrode array can help diagnose the patients' disease functional characteristics more efficiently [87,88]. Integrated implantable single shaft probes with dense electrodes and probe circuits were developed [89][90][91].…”