Fully internal, wirelessly powered systems for optogenetics

Optogenetic manipulation of neural circuits in mice during natural behavior is important for understanding neural function. Conventional systems for optogenetics require tethers or large head-mounted devices for light delivery that disrupt natural animal behavior. We review our system for wireless optogenetics based on wirelessly powered, fully implanted light-emitting devices (20 mg, 10 mm3). The system allows for untethered optogenetic control of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerve endings over a wide (16 cm diameter) operation area. This technology enables manipulation of both central and peripheral neural targets during natural animal behavior.