Researchers in the laboratory of Michael Roukes have created a new type of optical brain probe for studying and mapping animal brains in vivo. The ultrathin silicon-based probes are shown here next to a penny for scale. (Credit: Roukes Lab/Caltech)

Researchers have developed a new type of optical brain probe based on nanotechnology and the same optical communication technology that is used to carry Internet data around the globe. The new ultrathin silicon-based probes have been used to send light deep into the brains of animals to precisely target circuits of neurons that control cognition, behavior, and body functions.

The new silicon probes are much smaller than currently used optical fibers and are much gentler on the brain, enabling them to get better target small circuits of neurons or portions of brain circuits. The probes can target individual neurons while simultaneously minimizing displacement of brain tissue and providing access to areas deeper in the brain than previously possible.

A subsequent generation of probes, currently in development, will also be able to create patterns of blue, yellow, and other wavelengths of light — allowing investigators to simultaneously turn on and off various neurons in a brain circuit, for instance. The researchers plan to combine this light-delivery technology with various light-detection methods to create a nano-sized microscope within the brain itself.

Source 


Topics:
Medical