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Updated: Jun 16, 2026

Optrode Array for Simultaneous Optogenetic Modulation and Electrical Neural Recording
Published on: September 1, 2022
A Reconfigurable All-Optical-Controlled Synaptic Device for Neuromorphic Computing Applications.
Tao Zhang1, Chao Fan2, Lingxiang Hu3
1State Key Laboratory of Silicon and Advanced Semiconductor Materials, Cyrus Tang Center for Sensor Materials and Applications, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.
Researchers developed a novel all-optical controlled synaptic device using IGZO/SnO/SnS heterostructures. This device mimics retinal function, enabling efficient optical signal processing and artificial neural network applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Neuroscience
- Optoelectronics
Background:
- Neuromorphic visual systems require effective retina-inspired sensors.
- Achieving bidirectional synaptic behavior and high performance under photostimulation remains challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a reconfigurable all-optical controlled synaptic device.
- To integrate sensing, storage, and processing functions for neuromorphic applications.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of junction field-effect transistors using an IGZO/SnO/SnS heterostructure.
- Utilizing energy band engineering for bidirectional photoresponse.
- Testing synaptic behavior under various light stimuli (UV and visible light).
Main Results:
- Demonstrated bidirectional synaptic excitatory and inhibitory behaviors without external voltage modulation.
- Achieved a 91% recognition rate for handwritten numerals using an artificial neural network simulator.
- Successfully demonstrated image recognition and simulated retinal damage using an 8x8 optoelectrical synaptic array.
Conclusions:
- The IGZO/SnO/SnS heterostructure offers a viable strategy for high-performance all-optical controlled optoelectronic synapses.
- This work presents a practical approach for designing multifunctional artificial neural vision systems.
- The device shows potential for advanced image processing and understanding retinal damage mechanisms.
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