Optically controllable microelectrode array for stimulating cells within a tissue

US6347250B1 · kind B1 · utility

Inventors

• Wilfried Nisch · Tübingen, DE
• Martin Stelzle · Reutlingen, DE
• Stefan Weiss · Tübingen, DE
• Eberhart Zrenner · Bingen, DE
• Elke Günther · Reutlingen, DE
• Alfred Stett · Reutlingen, DE
• Heinz-Gerhard Graf · Magstadt, DE
• Michael Graf · Belmont, US
• Markus Schubert · Tübingen, DE
• Harald N. Wanka · Schorndorf, DE
• Anke Hierzenberger · Sindelfingen, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 23, 1999
• Grant date: Feb 12, 2002
• Expiry date: Apr 23, 2019

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61N1/326
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

An optically controllable microelectrode array for stimulating cells within a tissue is disclosed. The array comprises a substrate having a surface. The substrate is adapted to be placed on the tissue with the surface adjoining the cells. The substrate further comprises a plurality of electrodes on the surface in contact with the cells for stimulating the cells. The electrodes are dimensioned such that a first surface area on the electrodes in contact with the cells is essentially smaller than a second surface area on the cells in which the cells may be contacted by the electrodes. An electrical stimulus is exerted from the electrodes to the cells under the control of light impinging on the tissue.