Wireless Optoelectronic Photometers For Monitoring Neuronal Dynamics In The Deep Brain

Keywords

Neuroscience; Optogenetics; Photometry

Abstract

Capabilities for recording neural activity in behaving mammals have greatly expanded our understanding of brain function. Some of the most sophisticated approaches use light delivered by an implanted fiber-optic cable to optically excite genetically encoded calcium indicators and to record the resulting changes in fluorescence. Physical constraints induced by the cables and the bulk, size, and weight of the associated fixtures complicate studies on natural behaviors, including social interactions and movements in environments that include obstacles, housings, and other complex features. Here, we introduce a wireless, injectable fluorescence photometer that integrates a miniaturized light source and a photodetector on a flexible, needle-shaped polymer support, suitable for injection into the deep brain at sites of interest. The ultrathin geometry and compliant mechanics of these probes allow minimally invasive implantation and stable chronic operation. In vivo studies in freely moving animals demonstrate that this technology allows high-fidelity recording of calcium fluorescence in the deep brain, with measurement characteristics that match or exceed those associated with fiber photometry systems. The resulting capabilities in optical recordings of neuronal dynamics in untethered, freely moving animals have potential for widespread applications in neuroscience research.

Publication Date

2-13-2018

Publication Title

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America

Volume

115

Issue

7

Number of Pages

E1374-E1383

Document Type

Article

Personal Identifier

scopus

DOI Link

https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1718721115

Socpus ID

85041958583 (Scopus)

Source API URL

https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/85041958583

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