A CMOS-based neural implantable optrode for optogenetic stimulation and electrical recording

This paper presents a novel integrated optrode for simultaneous optical stimulation and electrical recording for closed-loop optogenetic neuro-prosthetic applications. The design has been implemented in a commercially available 0.35μm CMOS process. The system includes circuits for controlling the optical stimulations; recording local field potentials (LFPs); and onboard diagnostics. The neural interface has two clusters of stimulation and recording sites. Each stimulation site has a bonding point for connecting a micro light emitting diode (μLED) to deliver light to the targeted area of brain tissue. Each recording site is designed to be post-processed with electrode materials to provide monitoring of neural activity. On-chip diagnostic sensing has been included to provide real-time diagnostics for post-implantation and during normal operation.