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A Cell-Type Selective Stimulation and Recording System for Retinal Ganglion Cells
IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Circuits and Systems
|December 14, 2023
Summary
This study introduces a new system for retinal implants that selectively stimulates specific retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) using high-frequency electrical currents. This approach aims to restore more natural vision by mimicking the eye's natural responses.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neuroscience
- Implantable Devices
Background:
- Future retinal implants need cell-type specific stimulation for natural vision.
- Current methods often evoke phosphenes instead of natural perception.
- Selective activation of Retinal Ganglion Cell (RGC) subtypes is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a system for selective RGC stimulation.
- To identify target RGC subtypes and extract stimulation parameters.
- To achieve natural visual perception in patients with retinal implants.
Main Methods:
- A 42-channel current-controlled stimulation and recording system on chip (SoC) was developed.
- Real-time RGC selection algorithm provides input parameters.
- High-frequency (kHz range) sinusoidal stimulation currents were applied.
Main Results:
- The SoC stimulates retinal tissue at >1 kHz with amplitudes up to 200 μA.
- Tunable recording units with action potential detection amplify signals from 1 Hz to 50 kHz.
- Kilohertz sinusoidal stimulation induced a novel suppressive response in specific RGC subtypes.
Conclusions:
- The observed RGC response mimics natural light responses.
- This stimulation approach offers potential for more genuine visual perception.
- The developed SoC is a key advancement for next-generation retinal implants.
