Cortical Response to Acute Implantation of the Utah Optrode Array in Macaque Cortex

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Optogenetics

Background:

• Optogenetics is crucial for neural circuit research but faces challenges in large-brained species like non-human primates (NHPs).
• Delivering light to deep neural tissues with precision in NHPs is difficult without impacting superficial areas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the acute biological response to Utah Optrode Array (UOA) implantation in NHP cortex.
• To optimize UOA design for reduced insertion trauma and improved chronic performance and biocompatibility.

Main Methods:

• The study involved acute implantation of UOAs in NHP cortex, varying shank diameter, geometry, and insertion pressure.
• Biological responses, including astrocyte and microglia activity and neuronal viability, were assessed post-implantation.

Main Results:

• UOAs with smaller shank diameter, smooth surfaces, and round tips demonstrated the least tissue damage.
• Higher insertion pressures led to greater tissue compression but had minimal impact on inflammation.
• Device design parameters significantly influence tissue response and biocompatibility.

Conclusions:

• Optimized UOA design, considering shank characteristics and insertion parameters, is crucial for minimizing tissue damage.
• This research paves the way for improved optogenetic tools for studying complex neural circuits in NHPs.