Review
Open Access
Implantable imaging and photostimulation devices for biomedical applications
1 Institute for Research Initiatives, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Nara, Japan
2 Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Nara, Japan
3 Nara Institute of Science and Technology
4 Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
5 Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
6 Department of System Neuroscience, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, The National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Aichi, Japan
7 Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kobe Gakuin University, Hyogo, Japan
8 Department of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
9 Nara Advanced Imaging Technology, Co., Ltd., Nara, Japan
Abstract

Unlike traditional methods that implant passive optical components like fibers and rod lenses, optoelectronic semiconductor-based devices directly implant active optoelectronic semiconductors into the brain. This approach offers several advantages—the devices are compact and lightweight, enabling measurement and control without hindering the movement of small animals like mice. Additionally, it allows for simultaneous implantation of multiple devices, and integration with other functions. However, potential temperature increment and biocompatibility due to the active nature of these devices are major drawbacks. This paper reviews novel optoelectronic semiconductor-based devices for measuring and controlling brain nerve function. The advantages of brain-implantable optoelectronic semiconductor devices for fluorescence imaging and photostimulation are highlighted. We address potential limitations and propose future improvements, demonstrating their significant potential to advance neuroscience and pharmacology.

Keywords

CMOS image sensors; implantable imaging devices; fluorescence imaging; light emitting devices; photostimulation; optogenetics; neurotransmitters; electroceuticals; photoceuticals

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