Light-Controlled Electric Stimulation with Organic Electrolytic Photocapacitors Achieves Complex Neuronal Network Activation: Semi-Chronic Study in Cortical Cell Culture and Rat Model
Loading...
Date
2024-08-13
Authors
Nowakowska, Marta
Jakešová, Marie
Schmidt, Tony
Opančar, Aleksandar
Polz, Mathias
Reimer, Robert
Fuchs, Julia
Patz, Silke
Ziesel, Daniel
Scheruebel, Susanne
0000-0003-3471-1110Advisor
Referee
Mark
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Wiley
Altmetrics
Abstract
Neurostimulation employing photoactive organic semiconductors offers an appealing alternative to conventional techniques, enabling targeted action and wireless control through light. In this study, organic electrolytic photocapacitors (OEPC) are employed to investigate the effects of light-controlled electric stimulation on neuronal networks in vitro and in vivo. The interactions between the devices and biological systems are characterized. Stimulation of primary rat cortical neurons results in an elevated expression of c-Fos within a mature neuronal network. OEPC implantation for three weeks and subsequent stimulation of the somatosensory cortex leads to an increase of c-Fos in neurons at the stimulation site and in connected brain regions (entorhinal cortex, hippocampus), both in the ipsi- and contralateral hemispheres. Reactivity of glial and immune cells after semi-chronic implantation of OEPC in the rat brain is comparable to that of surgical controls, indicating minimal foreign body response. Device functionality is further substantiated through retained charging dynamics following explantation. OEPC-based, light-controlled electric stimulation has a significant impact on neural responsiveness. The absence of detrimental effects on both the brain and device encourages further use of OEPC as cortical implants. These findings highlight its potential as a novel mode of neurostimulation and instigate further exploration into applications in fundamental neuroscience. Wireless cortical stimulation is an attractive alternative to standard neurostimulation methods. Organic photoactive semiconductors can transduce light into electric signal, even in ultrathin layers, which can be used to stimulate neurons. In this study, light-based stimulation activated complex neuronal networks in vitro and in vivo, including deep brain regions. The devices proved safe and stable over three weeks of implantation. image
Description
Citation
Advanced Healthcare Materials. 2024, vol. 13, issue 29, p. 1-19.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adhm.202401303
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adhm.202401303
Document type
Peer-reviewed
Document version
Published version
Date of access to the full text
Language of document
en