Implantable Micro-Light-Emitting Diode (mu LED)-based optogenetic interfaces toward human applications

Abstract

Optogenetics has received wide attention in biomedical fields because of its advantages in temporal precision and spatial resolution. Beyond contributions to important advances in fundamental research, optogenetics is inspiring a shift towards new methods of improving human well-being and treating diseases. Soft, flexible and biocompatible systems using mu LEDs as a light source have been introduced to realize brain-compatible optogenetic implants, but there are still many technical challenges to overcome before their human applications. In this review, we address progress in the development of implantable mu LED probes and recent achievements in (i) device engineering design, (ii) driving power, (iii) multifunctionality and (iv) closed-loop systems. (v) Expanded optogenetic applications based on remarkable advances in mu LED implants will also be discussed. (c) 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.