OPTICAL STIMULATION OF PHOTOSENSITIZED CELLS

摘要

This invention describes a device for optical stimulation of cells and other biological structures. It has an ability to target multiple cells and/or multiple sub-cellular targets. The stimulation optical pattern on each cell can be independently controlled with individual frequencies. The light sensitivity of the cells can be imparted as a result of genetic expression of surface and/or subsurface proteins, chemical modification of existing proteins, or via the release of caged entities which in turn act to stimulate the cell through chemical means. The embodiment is capable of functioning on neurons but can also be used for other cells. It can perform optimal stimulation with sub-cellular resolutions, record the activity of the targeted cells and perform processing to ensure calibration.