Evaluation of implantable BIMEA stimulators with optimized stimulations protocols in animal models of receptor degenerations

• Applicants: Dr. Florent Haiss; Professor Dr. Andreas Offenhäusser; Professor Dr. Peter Walter
• Subject Area: Microsystems ; Ophthalmology
• Term: from 2011 to 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 143709190

The goal of the research project is the application of a BIMEA prototype device for electrical retinal stimulation in-vitro and to obtain evidence of cortical activation in-vivo using this device. BIMEA prototypes will be inserted into the isolated retina and the neural activity within distinct layers of the retina will be recorded with this device. The data on spontaneous activity within the retina will be used to modify standard stimulation protocols to achieve a higher efficacy for ganglion cell stimulation. The device will be also used in an acuterabbit model in-vivo where we record neural activity within the retina. This data is compared to data from the in-vitro experiments. We will determine the effects of light and electrical stimulation on the neural activity within retina recorded with BIMEA probes. Using intrinsic optical imaging and recording of local field potentials from the visual cortex we will demonstrate cortical activation upon stimulation with BIMEA probes. The experiments will be performed in normal rabbits as well as in rabbits with a pharmacological induced receptor degeneration of the outer retina. It has to be determined wether the kind of spontaneous activity in the retina is of any influence for the efficacy of cortical activation and if any kind of electrical preconditioning in the retina may enhance this efficacy.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants