Segmented Implantable Optical Stimulator for Selective Neuromodulation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electrode-based brain stimulation techniques face challenges due to the distributed nature of neurons, leading to indiscriminate stimulation, mechanical instability, and unintended activation of non-target cells, while optogenetic methods require precise light delivery that can be invasive and uncomfortable for patients.
Innovation Solution
An elongated light-delivery structure with separately-activatable light sources is implanted in a narrow passageway to selectively stimulate target cells, such as neurons genetically altered to express light-responsive proteins, allowing for precise control of light delivery to specific areas within the body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrode-based stimulation is used to stimulate neurons, then electrical current can be delivered to target cells, but the stimulation becomes indiscriminate and activates non-target cells due to the distributed nature of neurons and physical proximity requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light delivery system into multiple discrete light sources (e.g., multiple LEDs) that can be independently controlled and positioned at different locations. This segmentation allows selective activation of specific neuronal populations by targeting individual light sources to specific anatomical regions, thereby achieving cell-type or region-specific stimulation without affecting non-target cells.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by providing different optical properties at different locations along the implantable device. Each segment of the device can deliver light with specific wavelengths, intensities, and temporal patterns tailored to the physiological characteristics of the local neuronal population, enabling precise spatial control over which cells are activated.
2Reliability
If electrode leads are placed in the brain for stimulation, then electrical signals can be delivered to neurons, but mechanical stability is inadequate leading to lead migration from the targeted area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical electrode-tissue interface with an optical interface. Instead of relying on mechanical stability of electrode contacts, the system uses light delivery through implantable optical fibers or waveguides that can be more stably positioned. The optical signal transmission does not require the same degree of mechanical contact stability as electrical electrodes, thereby reducing lead migration issues.
3Reliability
If electrode stimulation is used to reach targeted cells, then electrical current can be delivered, but after a period of time electrode leads become encapsulated with glial cells raising electrical resistance and requiring increased power delivery which spreads effects to additional cells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes electrical stimulation with optical stimulation. Light delivery through optical fibers or waveguides does not suffer from the same glial encapsulation and resistance increase problems that affect electrical electrodes. The optical interface maintains stable light transmission over time without requiring compensatory increases in power that would spread effects to non-target cells.
4Reliability
If optogenetic methods are used to selectively stimulate neurons, then specific neuronal populations can be targeted, but the light delivery requires invasive procedures that can be uncomfortable for patients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional implantable device that combines light delivery capabilities with neural stimulation functions. The device can deliver light through optical fibers or waveguides while also potentially serving as a recording electrode or providing electrical stimulation when needed. This universal design reduces the need for separate invasive procedures and consolidates multiple functions into a single implant.
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 precise and minimally invasive stimulation of target cells, reducing unintended activation and improving the efficacy of neuromodulation by allowing selective targeting of specific neuronal populations, enhancing therapeutic outcomes while minimizing patient discomfort.
Implementation Method 1
photosensitive bio-molecular structures to stimulate target cells in response to light. For instance, light activated proteins can be used to control the flow of ions through cell membranes. By facilitating the flow of ions through cell membranes, the cell can be depolarized while inhibiting the flow of ions which can cause the cell to polarize.
Data Source
AI summary
Various systems and methods are implemented for in vivo use in a living animal. One such method involves stimulating target cells having light-responsive proteins and includes providing an elongated light-delivery structure in a narrow passageway in the animal, the elongated light-delivery structure having separately-activatable light sources located along the length of the elongated light-delivery structure. The method also includes activating less than all the light sources to deliver light to light-responsive proteins adjacent to the activated light sources along the length of the elongated light-delivery structure, thereby stimulating target cells in vivo.