Multifunctional multi-shank neural probe for investigating and modulating long-range neural circuits in vivo

Abstract

Investigation and modulation of neural circuits in vivo at the cellular level are very important for studying functional connectivity in a brain. Recently, neural probes with stimulation capabilities have been introduced, and they provided an opportunity for studying neural activities at a specific region in the brain using various stimuli. However, previous methods have a limitation in dissecting long-range neural circuits due to inherent limitations on their designs. Moreover, the large size of the previously reported probes induces more significant tissue damage. Herein, we present a multifunctional multi-shank MEMS neural probe that is monolithically integrated with an optical waveguide for optical stimulation, microfluidic channels for drug delivery, and microelectrode arrays for recording neural signals from different regions at the cellular level. In this work, we successfully demonstrated the functionality of our probe by confirming and modulating the functional connectivity between the hippocampal CA3 and CA1 regions in vivo.

Biointegrated and Wirelessly Powered Implantable Brain Devices: A Review

“…Nowadays, the state-of-the-art devices like Michigan-style probes [47] and Utah arrays [48] are commercially available and has been utilized in neuroscience research. Furthermore, emerging Silicon-based implantable probe technologies such as Neuropixels for high-density neural recordings [49], multifunctional probe [50], as well as 3D probe for recording of coordinated brain activity from large population of neurons [51] have enriched us with new insights to study the brain. Regardless of numerous triumphs and creative revelations in neuroscience (from the disclosure of spot and framework cells to mapping and motor cortex stimulation), still implantable neural devices face numerous limitations that circumscribe their chronic implementation.…”

Bioinspired Prosthetic Interfaces

“…Some of the innovative additions that have been developed are staggered herringbone mixer and a heater, LED, and wireless multimodule on a silicon probe . Recently, Shin et al designed a 40 µm thick multifunctional multi‐shank micro‐electro‐mechanical systems (MEMS) neural probe that is monolithically integrated with an optical waveguide, microfluidic channels for drug delivery, and microelectrode arrays to record from different regions as shown in Figure a . In their work, the design of the multi‐shank was specific to capture the synaptic circuit between hippocampal CA3 and CA1 regions of mice, stimulating with optical and chemical delivery at CA3 on 1 probe and recording the result with the eight‐electrode array from the other three probes in CA1 and CA3 with an impedance of ≈0.6 MΩ at 1 kHz.…”

“…The multifunctional multi‐shank MEMS neural probe inserted in CA3 and CA1 of the hippocampus of a mouse (bottom). Reproduced with permission . Copyright 2019,Springer Nature.…”

“…Implantable Neural Interfaces: Multifunctional interrogation electrode. Reproduced with permission . Copyright 2019, Springer Nature.…”

Advanced Electrical and Optical Microsystems for Biointerfacing

“…Reproduced with permission. [ 281 ] Copyright 2019, Springer Nature. d) Cross‐sectional microscope image of a multimodal multimaterial optical fiber that integrates fluidic channels and electrodes.…”