Systems and methods for implementing an optrode lead of a cochlear implant

Optrode leads with an elastomeric encapsulant and controlled light emission address the challenges of immunogenic responses and opsin expression decline, enhancing neural survival and stability in cochlear implants for improved optical stimulation efficacy.

WO2025198593A1 Publication Date: 2025-09-25ADVANCED BIONICS LLC
3 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/US2024/020912
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-03-21
Publication Date
2025-09-25

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing cochlear implant systems face challenges in achieving efficient and long-term expression of light-sensitive opsins in target cells due to immunogenic responses, opsin overexpression toxicity, and reduced opsin expression over time, which affect the efficacy of optogenetic neural stimulation.

Method used

The use of optrode leads with an elastomeric encapsulant impregnated with compounds that facilitate light sensitivity, combined with controlled light emission to stimulate neurons and release neurotrophic factors, enhances neural survival and stability, improving surgical handling and long-term efficacy.

Benefits of technology

The described optrode leads provide stable and efficient optical stimulation by minimizing immunogenic responses and maintaining neural sensitivity, ensuring reliable and long-term operation of cochlear implants.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

An exemplary system comprises a memory that stores instructions and a processor communicatively coupled to the memory and configured to execute the instructions to perform a process. The process may comprise directing a cochlear implant to emit light having a first wavelength by way of one or more optrodes of an optrode lead inserted at least partially within a cochlea of a recipient, the light having a first wavelength optically stimulating neurons of the cochlea and directing the cochlear implant to emit light having a second wavelength by way of the one or more optrodes, the second wavelength being different than the first wavelength and triggering release of a compound that is impregnated within the optrode lead and that facilitates light sensitivity of the neurons.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art