Document Type : Overview

Author

• Parisa Mahmoudi

Assistant Professor, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

The field of brain mapping reveals that each region within the nervous system performs specific functions, with neurons in neural networks communicating through complex spatiotemporal patterns. Implementing these neuronal activity patterns is crucial for neuroscience to control neural activity and treat diseases. Researchers use these patterns for targeted neural stimulation of neurons to uncover the secrets of information processing in the brain's intricate networks. Optical neural stimulation, as a powerful tool for manipulating neurons, employs optical modulation techniques to achieve patterned light illumination on neural tissue surfaces. On the other hand, the design of implants that deliver effective, patterned light pulses to target neurons deep within brain tissue is significantly evolving. These tools enable the reconstruction of neuronal activity patterns in both two and three dimensions. This study highlights the necessity of achieving patterned light delivery techniques to neural tissue by introducing various optical stimulation techniques. Subsequently, patterned light implementation through advanced technologies, including scanning lasers, liquid crystal modulators, and digital micromirror modulators, is examined with their unique advantages and challenges. Finally, the notable advancements in fiber optic arrays, waveguides, and micro light-emitting diodes, which collectively pave the way toward more complex and less invasive neural stimulation techniques, are reviewed.

Keywords

• Spatiotemporal patterns
• Liquid crystal on silicon spatial light modulator
• Digital micromirror array
• Fiber optic array
• Waveguide