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Tiny Wireless Optical Implant for Neural Control

April 26th, 2018 Conn Hastings Neurology, Neurosurgery, Rehab

Researchers in Japan have developed a tiny optical implant, no bigger than the width of a coin, that could be used to change neural behavior. The researchers can implant the device several centimeters into the body, and then activate it externally using infrared light. The device could make it easier for researchers to identify the role of specific neuro circuits in neurological diseases, helping them to develop new treatments.

The field of optogenetics involves activating neurons using light, and this method has helped scientists to learn more about complicated neural circuitry, and its role in disease. Typically, this approach involves optical implants that can deliver light to neurons, such as those in the brain. In fact, researchers have been able to control the behavior of rodents using such optical implants. This technique may also have direct therapeutic potential in areas as diverse as spinal cord injuries and depression.

However, optical implants are typically bulky and uncomfortable, and are comparable to wearing something heavy on the head, such as a football helmet. If optogenetics were ever to be used therapeutically, current implants would likely be difficult for patients to use in the long-term.

The group of Japanese researchers set out to miniaturize an optical implant. So far, this has proved difficult, as many implants rely on electromagnets, meaning that reducing their size also reduces their power. To avoid this, the research team turned to photovoltaics, which is more amenable to miniaturization.

“We integrated two sets of photovoltaic cells onto semiconductor chips,” said Takashi Tokuda, a researcher involved in the study. The implant contains an LED chip, which emits blue light that can activate certain light-sensitive neural proteins. However, the researchers can use infrared light to activate the implant, as this light can easily penetrate tissue, meaning they can implant the sensor up to several centimeters deep in the body.

The implant is just 2.3 milligrams in weight and 1 cubic millimeter in volume. The researchers have described it as “the world’s smallest wireless optical neural stimulator.”

Study in AIP Advances: 1 mm3-sized optical neural stimulator based on CMOS integrated photovoltaic power receiver…

Via: Nara Institute of Science and Technology…

Conn Hastings

Conn Hastings received a PhD from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland for his work in drug delivery, investigating the potential of injectable hydrogels to deliver cells, drugs and nanoparticles in the treatment of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. After achieving his PhD and completing a year of postdoctoral research, Conn pursued a career in academic publishing, before becoming a full-time science writer and editor, combining his experience within the biomedical sciences with his passion for written communication.

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