Optical Neural Localization via Fluorescent Tracers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for deep brain stimulation (DBS) lack precise localization of neural structures, leading to inefficiencies and risks due to insufficient resolution of local field potentials, which complicates the accurate placement of therapeutic devices and the avoidance of adverse stimulation areas.
Innovation Solution
The use of evoked potentials in local field potential recordings in response to peripheral sensory and neural stimulation, guided by cutaneous electrical and vibratory stimulation, to determine the precise location of neural structures, employing algorithms like Radon transforms and deconvolution to enhance spatial resolution and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If microelectrode recordings (MERs) are used for target localization, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical MER system with an optical imaging system. Instead of using microelectrodes to record electrical signals from neural structures, the system uses optical scanners to capture images of fluorescently labeled neural structures, thereby achieving precise localization without the complexity of MER equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces fluorescent tracers as an intermediary substance that labels neural structures. These tracers allow optical detection of neural anatomy without requiring direct electrical recording from the structures themselves, simplifying the measurement system while maintaining precision
2Device complexity
If local field potentials are used for target localization, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision is insufficient for precise localization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes fluorescent labeling (optical signal generation) to make neural structures visible and distinguishable. By introducing fluorescent tracers that emit light at specific wavelengths, the system achieves precise spatial localization through optical detection, overcoming the precision limitations of non-fluorescent methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional electrical signal recording to two-dimensional optical imaging. By using optical scanners that capture images across a plane, the system gains superior spatial resolution and localization precision compared to point-based electrical recording methods
3Measurement precision
If evoked potentials are recorded from peripheral nerves, then measurement precision for neural structure identification is improved, but the time required for recording increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary fluorescent labeling of neural structures before the recording procedure. By pre-labeling the target structures with fluorescent tracers, the system enables rapid optical detection during surgery without requiring time-consuming intraoperative labeling or complex real-time stimulation protocols
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables rapid and precise identification of neural structures, improving the accuracy of DBS lead placement and reducing the risk of adverse effects by providing detailed spatial localization of evoked potentials, thus enhancing the efficacy of DBS procedures.
Implementation Method 1
evoked potentials in local field potential (LFP) recordings in response to peripheral sensory and neural stimulation
Implementation Method 2
employing algorithms like Radon transforms and deconvolution to enhance spatial resolution and accuracy
Implementation Method 3
employing algorithms like Radon transforms and deconvolution to enhance spatial resolution and accuracy
Implementation Method 4
Suitable types of stimulation include cutaneous electrical stimulation and vibration over muscles
Implementation Method 5
Muscle spindles can be selectively activated by pulse vibratory stimulation applied using mechanical transducers
Implementation Method 6
pulse vibratory stimulation applied using mechanical transducers
Implementation Method 7
recording and analyzing long latency transcortical reflexes for monitoring spinal cord function and integrity
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are a method and system are provided for the localization of clinically relevant electrophysiological signals necessary for the proper placement of the electrodes for nervous system stimulation. The system provides electrical and mechanical means to stimulate or excite neural structures in order to elicit specific neural responses. The method can include mechanical vibratory stimulation, cutaneous electrical stimulation, electrical stimulation of the peripheral nerves, or photic stimulation, and recording of local field potentials and extracting evoked potentials in response to stimulation. The method also includes extracting components of the evoked potentials that relate the signal in the evoked potentials to specific anatomical structures and localization of the source of the evoked potentials recorded so as to identify the location of the source relative to the recording electrode with high resolution by sampling the evoked potentials with a relative large (macro) electrode that is moved in small incremental steps.