Design and investigation of optical waveguides for optogenetic applications
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Date
2023-11
Authors
Λαμπροπούλου, Ευγενία
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Abstract
Recent advances in optogenetics have established a powerful tool for studying the function of neural circuits and other biological systems. Optogenetics, uses light-sensitive proteins to control the activity of specific cells or molecules with high temporal and spatial precision, allowing researchers to investigate complex biological processes in unprecedented detail. One key aspect of optogenetics is the use of optical waveguides to deliver light to the target cells or tissues.
The design and optimization of optical waveguides for optogenetic applications is an active area of research, with many challenges and opportunities for innovation.
This thesis focuses on the design and simulation of a multicore optical waveguide intended for optogenetic applications. The objective is to create an implantable optical fiber capable of neural stimulation. In Chapter 1, the research encompasses a comprehensive review of waveguides used in optogenetic applications, materials suitable for fabrication, and various construction methods. It also presents the proposed materials for the conducted simulations, which are both biocompatible and, in some cases, biodegradable. In Chapter 2 the simulations were conducted using software by ANSYS-Lumerical. Optimal operating dimensions for the fibers were determined, including the minimum distance between cores to avoid crosstalk and the aspect ratio with overlap diagrams, in order to define the optimal combination. The effects of phase manipulation on core interaction were also examined. The outcomes of this work offer the potential for the realization of the proposed fibers and the creation of a fully functional multicore fiber with optimized dimensions, in rectangular shape.
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Keywords
Οptogenetics, Optical waveguides, Biophotonics, Light propagation, Neuroengineering