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Electrical stimulation with a needle-type electrode inserted into the optic nerve in rabbit eyes
Hirokazu Sakaguchi1, Takashi Fujikado, Hiroyuki Kanda
1Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan. sakaguh@ophthal.med.osaka-u.ac.jp
Japanese Journal of Ophthalmology
|December 14, 2004
Summary
Electrical stimulation of the optic nerve in rabbits successfully produced an electrical evoked potential (EEP). This finding suggests a potential new method for visual prosthesis placement.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Visual prostheses aim to restore sight to individuals with blindness.
- Optic nerve stimulation is a potential strategy for visual prosthesis development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if electrical stimulation of the optic nerve can elicit an electrical evoked potential (EEP) in rabbits.
- To assess the viability of optic nerve stimulation for visual prosthesis application.
Main Methods:
- Transvitreal insertion of two needle-type electrodes into the optic nerve.
- Application of monophasic and biphasic electrical pulses for stimulation.
- Recording of elicited EEP and subsequent histological examination.
Main Results:
- Electrical stimulation reliably elicited EEPs in rabbits.
- Stimulation thresholds were recorded: 10 +/- 0 microA for monophasic and 20 +/- 8.2 microA for biphasic pulses.
- Histological analysis showed no significant complications from electrode insertion or stimulation.
Conclusions:
- Optic nerve electrical stimulation can generate EEPs.
- This method shows promise as a component of future visual prosthesis systems.