Shielded Coaxial Optrode Arrays for Neurophysiology

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Bioengineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Advancements in brain research rely on tools for minimally-invasive neuronal coupling.
• Microelectrode arrays (MEAs) detect and correlate neuronal electrical signals.
• Optogenetics controls cell activity using light, but requires finer light input control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a coaxial electrode architecture addressing crosstalk and light control issues in dense neural arrays.
• To demonstrate the coaxial electrode's dual function as an optical waveguide and shielded electrode.
• To validate the architecture's utility in recording optogenetically-evoked cellular currents and network activity.

Main Methods:

• Development of a coaxial electrode architecture.
• Integration of the coaxial electrode with optogenetically-transfected cells.
• Recording of cellular currents evoked by optical stimulation.
• Demonstration of network recording via individually-addressed coaxial electrode regions.

Main Results:

• The coaxial electrode architecture effectively functions as both an optical waveguide and a shielded electrode.
• Successful recording of cellular currents evoked by optical stimulation in optogenetically-transfected cells.
• Demonstrated capability for network recording across multiple individually-addressed coaxial electrode regions.

Conclusions:

• The coaxial electrode architecture offers a solution for high-density neural recordings with reduced crosstalk.
• This architecture enhances optogenetic control and recording capabilities for studying neuroelectronic pathways.
• The developed tool facilitates more robust and precise investigation of neuronal assemblies and network dynamics.