METHODS, SYSTEMS AND DEVICES FOR OPTICAL STIMULATION OF TARGET CELLS USING AN OPTICAL TRANSMISSION ELEMENT

摘要

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide photosensitive bio-molecular structures and related methods.SOLUTION: In one device that implements optical stimulation of target cells in vivo, the target cells are stimulated using an implantable device. The device includes a light source for producing light from electrical power. An optical transmission element is made from a material that is substantially transparent to the light 208 from the light source 202. The transmission element substantially encases the light source at a proximal end. The transmission element delivers light from the light source to a distal end. The shape and size of the transmission element facilitates implanting of the element within a patient. A fixation portion physically couples to the optical transmission element and secures the device to the patient. A heat dissipation portion removes heat from the near optical transmission element and the light source and dissipates the removed heat through the fixation portion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2