Fully implantable and optical wireless neural probe for optogenetics using upconversion nanoparticle

2020 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 19K22098
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Challenging Research (Exploratory)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Medium-sized Section 28:Nano/micro science and related fields
• Research Institution: Tohoku University
• Principal Investigator: TANAKA Tetsu 東北大学, 医工学研究科, 教授 (40417382)
• Project Period (FY): 2019-06-28 – 2021-03-31
• Keywords: 神経プローブ / 光遺伝学 / アップコンバージョン

Outline of Final Research Achievements

This study aims to realize a fully implantable optical wireless neural probe by using nanoparticle upconversion. This neural probe enables non-invasive optical manipulation (inhibition and excitation) of target areas where near-infrared light cannot reach by transcutaneous means. This study established a fabrication process of an optical wireless neural probe fully implantable in the body using upconversion nanoparticles. We realized an upconversion neural probe that emits visible light when irradiated with near-infrared light. We have also succeeded in fabricating an upconversion neural probe in which the near-infrared light-irradiating part and the light-emitting part are separated from each other. These results are important for elucidating the development of various diseases and developing safe treatments.

Free Research Field

半導体工学・神経工学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

本研究では、アップコンバージョンナノ粒子を利用した体内完全埋植型の光無線神経プローブの作製プロセスを確立するとともに、近赤外光照射による可視光発光を発光するアップコンバージョン神経プローブを実現した。また、近赤外光照射部と発光部が離れているアップコンバージョン神経プローブの作製にも成功した。これらの成果は、種々の病気の発生機序の解明や安全な治療の開発に繋がる重要な成果と言える。