NeuroLight Optoelectrode

Plexon Inc and NeuroLight Technologies LLC have partnered to offer the NeuroLight Optoelectrode, a customizable electrode capable of optogenetic-control of local neural circuits in awake, behaving studies; square-wave excitation for precise timing control, sine-wave excitation for graded modulation, and chronic optogenetics where a microdrive is used for fine-tune positioning.

Precisely control the µLEDs using the new the NeuroLight Stimulator.

These optoelectrodes have recording sites and precisely defined µLEDs (10 x 15 µm), allowing for simultaneous recording and local optogenetic stimulation. For chronic experiments, the electrode features an extremely durable, yet flexible cable allowing for light-weight stereotactic head fixtures.

Acute

Chronic

  • 12 µLEDs, 10 x 15 µm each, 3 per shank
  • Emission Peak λ = 460 nm and FWHM = 40 nm
  • Typical irradiance of 33mW/mm2 (@ max operating current of 100 µA)
  • 32 recording channels, 8 per shank
    • Electrode impedance of 1000 – 1500 kΩ at 1 kHz
    • Noise floor ≤ 5 µVrms
  • < 50µVpk-pk stimulation artifact
  • 5 mm shank length
  • 2g total weight
  • 40 µm spacing between recording sites on the same shank
  • 60 µm spacing between LEDs on the same shank
  • 250 µm spacing between shanks

Technical Specs and Data Sheets

Webinar Q&As

Videos

If you use one of these designs, please cite the following papers: Metal microdrive and head cap system for silicon probe recovery in freely moving rodent Mihály Vöröslakos, Peter C. Petersen, Balázs Vöröslakos, György Buzsáki doi: doi.org/10.1101/2020.12.20.423655 and 3D-printed recoverable microdrive and base plate system for rodent electrophysiology; Mihály Vöröslakos, Hiroyuki Miyawaki, Sebastien Royer , Kamran Diba, Euisik Yoon, Peter C. Petersen and György Buzsáki; https://github.com/buzsakilab/3d_print_designs/tree/master/preprints

Are the micro-LEDs ESD protected?

ESD can permanently damage the micro-LEDs. Currently, there is no ESD protection circuitry integrated to the PCBs to protect the micro-LEDs on the optoelectrode. It is important that you discharge yourself before handling the micro-LED optoelectrode PCBs, especially when handling them in dry environment. It is also recommended that you use ESD protection equipment (e.g. ESD-safe mats and wrist straps) and ESD-safe (dissipative) tools for handling if available.

Can I drive the LEDs with voltage driver instead of a current driver?

Current drivers are generally a safer way to use your µLEDs but if you choose to use a voltage driver follow the I-V curve carefully and consider placing a high precision resistor in series and monitor current as well. Any oscilloscope or voltmeter would work well across your resistor in this case and ensure you know the current. This is also a simple way to make your own I-V curve if you want to evaluate the µLEDs on your own. Plexon recommends that the NeuroLight Stimulator be used to control the µLEDs.

How do I interpret the I-V curves for the micro-LEDs?

A turn-on voltage between 2.8V and 7V is considered usable, although near 3V is typical. If the I-V curve is flat, i.e. there is no current at any voltage, then the LED is open. Please do not use. If the turn-on is higher than 7V, it is also considered damaged. If the I-V curve is linear (I=a*V) then there is a short and that too is faulty.

What is a normal working range for impedance values at 1 kHz frequency?

A normal working range is 1000 kΩ to 1.5 MΩ. Outside of that, you are not likely to see spiking activity.

NeuroLight probe assembly specifications allow for a maximum of one abnormal LED and two abnormal recording sites. Any NeuroLight probe which is suspected of not meeting these specifications prior to use in vivo may be replaced. A NeuroLight probe implanted or used in any other way cannot be returned or replaced.