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A high-density microelectrode-tissue-microelectrode sandwich platform for application of retinal circuit study
Frank Yang1, Chung-Hua Yang1, Fu-Min Wang1
1Institute of NanoEngineering and Microsystems, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsin-Chu, Taiwan.
Biomedical Engineering Online
|November 28, 2015
Summary
A novel microelectrode array (MEA)-tissue-MEA (MTM) sandwich platform enables high-density neural recordings from retinal tissue. This system ensures sufficient oxygen supply for up to 30 minutes, crucial for retinal prosthesis research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Microelectrode array (MEA) devices are vital for neural circuit studies, particularly in retinal prostheses.
- High-throughput stimulation and recording require capturing responses from multiple retinal ganglion cells (RGCs).
- The microelectrode array-tissue-microelectrode array (MTM) sandwich configuration presents oxygen supply challenges due to the retina's high metabolic rate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a high-density MTM sandwich platform for neural circuit studies.
- To address oxygen supply limitations in MTM configurations for retinal tissue.
- To create a platform for high-throughput stimulation and recording of retinal responses.
Main Methods:
- Designed, simulated, and microfabricated porous high-density MEAs.
- Integrated an adjustable perfusion system for oxygen supply and signal delivery/recording.
- Assembled the MTM platform with a clipped retinal tissue slice.
Main Results:
- Manufactured porous high-density MEAs integrated into a perfusion system.
- Assembled MTM platform successfully housed retinal tissue.
- Maintained stable retinal firing rates for approximately 30 minutes, indicating adequate oxygenation via perfusion holes.
Conclusions:
- The MTM sandwich structure is an effective platform for retinal neural circuit research.
- Porous, high-density microelectrodes are suitable for sub-retinal prosthesis applications.
- Future improvements should focus on extending recording duration and enhancing signal-to-noise ratio.
