Modeling and characterization of LiNbO3-based microring resonator modulator for synaptic sensing

Ceren Babayigit; Rahim Esfandyarpour; Ozdal Boyraz

doi:10.1117/12.3002839

12 March 2024 Modeling and characterization of LiNbO3-based microring resonator modulator for synaptic sensing

Ceren Babayigit, Rahim Esfandyarpour, Ozdal Boyraz

Proceedings Volume 12854, Label-free Biomedical Imaging and Sensing (LBIS) 2024; 1285409 (2024) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3002839
Event: SPIE BiOS, 2024, San Francisco, California, United States

Abstract

In neuroscience research, it is crucial to measure action potentials accurately with high spatiotemporal resolution and sensitivity. Current approaches rely on electrodes or optogenetics. New approaches providing higher spatial resolution close to a single neuron, immunity to biological noise, and lesser tissue damage during measurements are always desired. Here, we present a feasibility study on a novel label-free integrated approach by combining the electro-optic (EO) properties of lithium niobate (LN) with a microring resonator (MRR) and coherent detection to enable highly sensitive and precise measurement of action potentials. Specifically, we discuss the feasibility of this so-called opto-probe by carrying the action potential signal with light modulation and beating it through homodyne detection to detect weak signals. The MRR structure obtains the modulation of the light through the refractive index change of LN under the electric field generated by the action potential. Then, at the homodyne detection part, the action potential information is extracted from the beating of these two signals by mixing the modulated signal with a local oscillator signal. We estimate that the electric field generated by action potentials as small as 15 μV is detectable with high resolution. Furthermore, the spatial resolution of the opto-probe can reach up to 249 electrodes/mm² when configured as an array, which offers scalability and potential for multiplexed sensing applications. The research findings present a promising advancement towards a novel tool that overcomes the limitations of electrode-based methods, enabling highly accurate and precise measurements of action potentials and enhancing our understanding of neuronal activity in the brain.

Conference Presentation

(2024) Published by SPIE. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.

Citation Download Citation

Ceren Babayigit, Rahim Esfandyarpour, and Ozdal Boyraz "Modeling and characterization of LiNbO3-based microring resonator modulator for synaptic sensing", Proc. SPIE 12854, Label-free Biomedical Imaging and Sensing (LBIS) 2024, 1285409 (12 March 2024); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3002839

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