Compact microLED optrode device for patterned inter-cortical optogenetics (Conference Presentation)

There is current demand for pattern programmable devices that can deliver light to deep brain structures for use in optogenetic experiments. Here we introduce a microLED optrode device with 181 individually addressable sites, each with the capability to optogenetically excite thousands of neurons in vivo. The device consists of a 10 x 10 glass microneedle array directly integrated with a custom fabricated microLED device. 100 microLEDs couple to the needle tips for intra-cortical light delivery and 81 microLEDs sit at interstitial points for surface illumination. Light delivery and thermal properties are comprehensively evaluated.