Skip to content

A hybrid neural interface optrode with a polycrystalline diamond heat spreader for optogenetics

MetadataDetails
Publication Date2016-03-01
JournalTECHNOLOGY
AuthorsBin Fan, Ki-Yong Kwon, Robert Rechenberg, Michael Becker, Arthur Weber
InstitutionsPlexon (United States), Michigan State University
Citations17

This paper reports a hybrid optrode combining light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and microelectrodes on a polycrystalline diamond (PCD) substrate, for optogenetic stimulation and electrical recording of neural activity. Thermally conductive PCD can dissipate the Joule heat to surrounding areas, and thus reduce the risk of thermal damage to nerve tissues. During repetitive optical stimulation, the maximum temperature rise of the PCD optrode was less 1.3°C. The functionality of the PCD probe was tested in vivo where light-evoked action potentials were successfully detected.