Leaky Opto-Electrical Neural Probe for Optical Stimulation and Electrochemical Detection of Dopamine Exocytosis

This paper reports on the fabrication and characterization of leaky opto-electrical neural probes for optical stimulation and real time electrochemical detection of dopamine exocytosis from optogenetically modified neural stem cells. Indentations were introduced in a SU-8 waveguide structure, patterned directly on the probe shank, to allow light to leak over a large area. Pyrolytic carbon electrodes fabricated on both sides of the leaky waveguide allow for real time detection of dopamine. The electrochemical characterization of the pyrolytic carbon demonstrates excellent conductivity and suitability for dopamine detection.