Optical Stimulation Device and Method for Programming

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes an optical stimulation device designed to stimulate nerve cells within the body, particularly in the brain, by delivering light via an implantable device. The device features an expandable supporting structure to secure it inside a fluid-filled natural cavity (such as a brain ventricle). Multiple light sources emit light radially to target surrounding neural tissue, while integrated electrodes capture electrical signals. The structure is perforated to allow bodily fluids to flow through, providing natural cooling for the device. It also supports programmable control of the light sources to optimize stimulation and minimize unwanted heating or energy consumption.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Treatment of neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, depression, anxiety disorders, and PTSD by targeted stimulation of specific brain regions.
• Non-invasive or minimally invasive optogenetic therapy for neural modulation in research or clinical applications.
• Modulation of autonomic functions by targeting hypothalamus or other relevant brain regions.
• Management of memory disorders through hippocampus stimulation.
• Therapeutic interventions for eating disorders, substance addiction, or sleep/wake disturbances.
• Research studies to better understand neural circuitry via precise optical stimulation and electrical recording.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Minimally invasive or non-invasive placement reduces surgical risks and broadens patient eligibility.
• Direct use of natural body fluids for cooling enables higher light power while preventing tissue overheating.
• Programmable selection and activation of light sources allows personalized, location-specific neural stimulation, optimizing therapeutic impact and reducing side effects.
• Integrated electrodes enable real-time monitoring and adaptive control of stimulation.
• Expandable and permeable structure allows stable, yet reversible, implantation with minimal tissue disruption and easy explantation or repositioning.
• Suitable for both research and clinical purposes, including in MRI environments when passive optical elements are used.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to an optical stimulation device for stimulating nerve cells, wherein the stimulation device has at least one implant component, which is designed for implanting in a natural inner cavity of the body of a living being, through which cavity a bodily fluid flows, having the following features: a) the implant component has at least one supporting structure, which can be expanded in a radial direction for fastening in the natural inner cavity, b) a plurality of light sources is fastened to the supporting structure, which light sources are designed to emit light in the radial direction with respect to the supporting structure, c) a plurality of electrodes is fastened to the supporting structure, which electrodes are designed to capture electrical body signals, d) the supporting structure has a plurality of openings and/or channels, through which the bodily fluid can flow after implantation in the body. The invention further relates to a method for programming the parameter memory of a stimulation device.