Optogenetic methods enable neuroscientist to study neural circuit function with high precision by making specifically targeted populations of neural tissue cells sensitive to light. To harness the full capabilities of this technique, it is essential for researchers to be able to deliver light with sufficient intensity not only to the surface but also into deep layers of the brain. In addition to this, a high level of spatial and temporal control is required while, at the same time, preventing stimulation artifacts or damage to the tissue by excessive heat generation. To address this challenge, we developed a novel neural implant device for light delivery based on the Utah Electrode Array (UEA) geometry: the Utah Optrode Array (UOA). This novel device combines a matrix-addressed µLED chip for light generation with an optical interposer and an array of needle-shaped borosilicate glass waveguides. Both the fabrication process of the waveguide array as well as encapsulation and wiring strategies are based on those used for the established UEA. In this talk the details on the development of the UOA along with its fabrication process and characterization, as well as the first successful in vivo experiments will be discussed.
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