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22.8 Multi-Functional Microelectrode Array System Featuring 59,760 Electrodes, 2048 Electrophysiology Channels,
Vijay Viswam1, Jelena Dragas1, Amir Shadmani1
1ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland.
Digest of Technical Papers. IEEE International Solid-State Circuits Conference
|December 17, 2021
Summary
This study reviews CMOS-based micro-electrode arrays (MEAs) for electrophysiology. It compares the active pixel sensor (APS) and switch matrix (SM) approaches, highlighting their trade-offs in noise and simultaneous readout capabilities for cell recording.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Bioelectronics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS)-based micro-electrode arrays (MEAs) are crucial for extracellular electrophysiological recording and stimulation of electrogenic cells.
- Existing MEA designs primarily utilize either the active pixel sensor (APS) approach or the switch matrix (SM) approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of current CMOS-based MEA technologies for electrophysiology.
- To compare the performance characteristics, particularly noise levels and simultaneous readout capabilities, of the APS and SM approaches.
Main Methods:
- Review and analysis of existing literature on CMOS-based MEA development.
- Comparative assessment of the APS and SM architectures based on reported performance metrics.
Main Results:
- The APS approach offers simultaneous readout of all electrodes but suffers from higher noise levels.
- The SM approach provides superior noise performance but limits simultaneous readout to a subset of electrodes.
- Current MEA systems are primarily limited to voltage recording and/or voltage/current stimulation functionalities.
Conclusions:
- Both APS and SM approaches present distinct advantages and disadvantages for electrophysiological applications.
- The choice between APS and SM depends on the specific requirements regarding noise sensitivity and the need for simultaneous multi-electrode recording.
- Future MEA development may aim to integrate the benefits of both approaches or introduce novel functionalities beyond basic recording and stimulation.
