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Small footprint optoelectrodes using ring resonators for passive light localization.
Vittorino Lanzio1,2, Gregory Telian3, Alexander Koshelev4
1The Molecular Foundry, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA.
Microsystems & Nanoengineering
|September 27, 2021
Summary
This study introduces a novel, highly scalable neural probe using 3D integration of sensors and nanophotonic circuits. This advancement significantly increases sensor density for precise brain activity mapping and manipulation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Optoelectronics
Background:
- Electrophysiology and optogenetics are crucial for studying neural circuits.
- Current neural probes face limitations in sensor density and independent stimulation site access.
- 3D integration offers a path to overcome these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a highly scalable neural probe with enhanced sensor density.
- To overcome the spatial limitations of nanophotonic circuits in neural probes.
- To demonstrate a novel approach for on-demand light localization in neural interfaces.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 3D integration of small-footprint sensor arrays and nanophotonic circuits.
- Employed optical ring resonators as passive nanophotonic switches.
- Coupled a single waveguide to numerous resonators to overcome spatial limits.
Main Results:
- Achieved a one-order-of-magnitude increase in sensor density per cross-section.
- Demonstrated accurate, on-demand light localization.
- Overcame spatial limitations of nanophotonic circuits without demanding waveguide bundles.
- Developed a proof-of-concept device showcasing scalability.
Conclusions:
- The developed probe enables high-resolution, low-damage neural optoelectrodes.
- This technology significantly advances in vivo neural recording and manipulation capabilities.
- The novel nanophotonic switching strategy offers a scalable solution for future neural interfaces.
