1
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Huet A, Mager T, Gossler C, Moser T. Toward Optogenetic Hearing Restoration. Annu Rev Neurosci 2024; 47:103-121. [PMID: 38594945 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-neuro-070623-103247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
The cochlear implant (CI) is considered the most successful neuroprosthesis as it enables speech comprehension in the majority of the million otherwise deaf patients. In hearing by electrical stimulation of the auditory nerve, the broad spread of current from each electrode acts as a bottleneck that limits the transfer of sound frequency information. Hence, there remains a major unmet medical need for improving the quality of hearing with CIs. Recently, optogenetic stimulation of the cochlea has been suggested as an alternative approach for hearing restoration. Cochlear optogenetics promises to transfer more sound frequency information, hence improving hearing, as light can conveniently be confined in space to activate the auditory nerve within smaller tonotopic ranges. In this review, we discuss the latest experimental and technological developments of optogenetic hearing restoration and outline remaining challenges en route to clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Huet
- Current affiliation: Institute for Neuroscience Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Montpellier, France
- Auditory Neuroscience and Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Science, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Mager
- Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: From Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Advanced Optogenes Group, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany;
| | - Christian Gossler
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany;
- Optics Modules Group, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Moser
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany;
- Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: From Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Science, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
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2
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Deng X, Peng D, Yao Y, Huang K, Wang J, Ma Z, Fu J, Xu Y. Optogenetic therapeutic strategies for diabetes mellitus. J Diabetes 2024; 16:e13557. [PMID: 38751366 PMCID: PMC11096815 DOI: 10.1111/1753-0407.13557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common chronic disease affecting humans globally. It is characterized by abnormally elevated blood glucose levels due to the failure of insulin production or reduction of insulin sensitivity and functionality. Insulin and glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 replenishment or improvement of insulin resistance are the two major strategies to treat diabetes. Recently, optogenetics that uses genetically encoded light-sensitive proteins to precisely control cell functions has been regarded as a novel therapeutic strategy for diabetes. Here, we summarize the latest development of optogenetics and its integration with synthetic biology approaches to produce light-responsive cells for insulin/GLP-1 production, amelioration of insulin resistance and neuromodulation of insulin secretion. In addition, we introduce the development of cell encapsulation and delivery methods and smart bioelectronic devices for the in vivo application of optogenetics-based cell therapy in diabetes. The remaining challenges for optogenetics-based cell therapy in the clinical translational study are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Deng
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio‐Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Clinical Evaluation and Translational ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Dandan Peng
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
| | - Yuanfa Yao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio‐Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Clinical Evaluation and Translational ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Ke Huang
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
| | - Jinling Wang
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
| | - Zhihao Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio‐Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Clinical Evaluation and Translational ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Junfen Fu
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
| | - Yingke Xu
- Department of EndocrinologyChildren's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardio‐Cerebral Vascular Detection Technology and Medicinal Effectiveness Appraisal, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Clinical Evaluation and Translational ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Binjiang Institute of Zhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
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3
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Lengert L, Tomanek M, Ghoncheh M, Lohmann H, Prenzler N, Kalies S, Johannsmeier S, Ripken T, Heisterkamp A, Maier H. Acoustic stimulation of the human round window by laser-induced nonlinear optoacoustics. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8214. [PMID: 38589426 PMCID: PMC11001906 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58129-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The feasibility of low frequency pure tone generation in the inner ear by laser-induced nonlinear optoacoustic effect at the round window was demonstrated in three human cadaveric temporal bones (TB) using an integral pulse density modulation (IPDM). Nanosecond laser pulses with a wavelength in the near-infrared (NIR) region were delivered to the round window niche by an optical fiber with two spherical lenses glued to the end and a viscous gel at the site of the laser focus. Using IPDM, acoustic tones with frequencies between 20 Hz and 1 kHz were generated in the inner ear. The sound pressures in scala tympani and vestibuli were recorded and the intracochlear pressure difference (ICPD) was used to calculate the equivalent sound pressure level (eq. dB SPL) as an equivalent for perceived loudness. The results demonstrate that the optoacoustic effect produced sound pressure levels ranging from 140 eq. dB SPL at low frequencies ≤ 200 Hz to 90 eq. dB SPL at 1 kHz. Therefore, the produced sound pressure level is potentially sufficient for patients requiring acoustic low frequency stimulation. Hence, the presented method offers a potentially viable solution in the future to provide the acoustic stimulus component in combined electro-acoustic stimulation with a cochlear implant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza Lengert
- Laser Zentrum Hannover E.V., Hollerithallee 8, 30419, Hannover, Germany
- NIFE, Lower Saxony Center for Biomedical Engineering, Implant Research and Development, Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael Tomanek
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Cluster of Excellence "Hearing4all", Hannover Medical School, VIANNA/NIFE, Stadtfelddamm 34, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Mohammad Ghoncheh
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Cluster of Excellence "Hearing4all", Hannover Medical School, VIANNA/NIFE, Stadtfelddamm 34, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hinnerk Lohmann
- Laser Zentrum Hannover E.V., Hollerithallee 8, 30419, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nils Prenzler
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Cluster of Excellence "Hearing4all", Hannover Medical School, VIANNA/NIFE, Stadtfelddamm 34, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Stefan Kalies
- Institute of Quantum Optics, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Sonja Johannsmeier
- Laser Zentrum Hannover E.V., Hollerithallee 8, 30419, Hannover, Germany
- NIFE, Lower Saxony Center for Biomedical Engineering, Implant Research and Development, Hannover, Germany
| | - Tammo Ripken
- Laser Zentrum Hannover E.V., Hollerithallee 8, 30419, Hannover, Germany
- NIFE, Lower Saxony Center for Biomedical Engineering, Implant Research and Development, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Hannes Maier
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Cluster of Excellence "Hearing4all", Hannover Medical School, VIANNA/NIFE, Stadtfelddamm 34, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
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4
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Mu H, Smith D, Ng SH, Anand V, Le NHA, Dharmavarapu R, Khajehsaeidimahabadi Z, Richardson RT, Ruther P, Stoddart PR, Gricius H, Baravykas T, Gailevičius D, Seniutinas G, Katkus T, Juodkazis S. Fraxicon for Optical Applications with Aperture ∼1 mm: Characterisation Study. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 14:287. [PMID: 38334558 PMCID: PMC10856946 DOI: 10.3390/nano14030287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Emerging applications of optical technologies are driving the development of miniaturised light sources, which in turn require the fabrication of matching micro-optical elements with sub-1 mm cross-sections and high optical quality. This is particularly challenging for spatially constrained biomedical applications where reduced dimensionality is required, such as endoscopy, optogenetics, or optical implants. Planarisation of a lens by the Fresnel lens approach was adapted for a conical lens (axicon) and was made by direct femtosecond 780 nm/100 fs laser writing in the SZ2080™ polymer with a photo-initiator. Optical characterisation of the positive and negative fraxicons is presented. Numerical modelling of fraxicon optical performance under illumination by incoherent and spatially extended light sources is compared with the ideal case of plane-wave illumination. Considering the potential for rapid replication in soft polymers and resists, this approach holds great promise for the most demanding technological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Mu
- Optical Sciences Centre, ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia; (H.M.); (D.S.); (N.H.A.L.); (R.D.); (Z.K.); (P.R.S.); (G.S.); (T.K.); (S.J.)
| | - Daniel Smith
- Optical Sciences Centre, ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia; (H.M.); (D.S.); (N.H.A.L.); (R.D.); (Z.K.); (P.R.S.); (G.S.); (T.K.); (S.J.)
| | - Soon Hock Ng
- Optical Sciences Centre, ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia; (H.M.); (D.S.); (N.H.A.L.); (R.D.); (Z.K.); (P.R.S.); (G.S.); (T.K.); (S.J.)
- Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication, Australian National Fabrication Facility, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Vijayakumar Anand
- Optical Sciences Centre, ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia; (H.M.); (D.S.); (N.H.A.L.); (R.D.); (Z.K.); (P.R.S.); (G.S.); (T.K.); (S.J.)
- Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwaldi 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Nguyen Hoai An Le
- Optical Sciences Centre, ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia; (H.M.); (D.S.); (N.H.A.L.); (R.D.); (Z.K.); (P.R.S.); (G.S.); (T.K.); (S.J.)
| | - Raghu Dharmavarapu
- Optical Sciences Centre, ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia; (H.M.); (D.S.); (N.H.A.L.); (R.D.); (Z.K.); (P.R.S.); (G.S.); (T.K.); (S.J.)
| | - Zahra Khajehsaeidimahabadi
- Optical Sciences Centre, ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia; (H.M.); (D.S.); (N.H.A.L.); (R.D.); (Z.K.); (P.R.S.); (G.S.); (T.K.); (S.J.)
| | - Rachael T. Richardson
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia;
- Medical Bionics Department, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia
| | - Patrick Ruther
- Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), University of Freiburg, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany;
- BrainLinks-BrainTools Center, University of Freiburg, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Paul R. Stoddart
- Optical Sciences Centre, ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia; (H.M.); (D.S.); (N.H.A.L.); (R.D.); (Z.K.); (P.R.S.); (G.S.); (T.K.); (S.J.)
| | - Henrikas Gricius
- Laser Research Center, Physics Faculty, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Ave. 10, 10223 Vilnius, Lithuania; (H.G.); (D.G.)
| | | | - Darius Gailevičius
- Laser Research Center, Physics Faculty, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Ave. 10, 10223 Vilnius, Lithuania; (H.G.); (D.G.)
| | - Gediminas Seniutinas
- Optical Sciences Centre, ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia; (H.M.); (D.S.); (N.H.A.L.); (R.D.); (Z.K.); (P.R.S.); (G.S.); (T.K.); (S.J.)
- Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication, Australian National Fabrication Facility, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Tomas Katkus
- Optical Sciences Centre, ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia; (H.M.); (D.S.); (N.H.A.L.); (R.D.); (Z.K.); (P.R.S.); (G.S.); (T.K.); (S.J.)
| | - Saulius Juodkazis
- Optical Sciences Centre, ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia; (H.M.); (D.S.); (N.H.A.L.); (R.D.); (Z.K.); (P.R.S.); (G.S.); (T.K.); (S.J.)
- Laser Research Center, Physics Faculty, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Ave. 10, 10223 Vilnius, Lithuania; (H.G.); (D.G.)
- WRH Program International Research Frontiers Initiative (IRFI) Tokyo Institute of Technology, Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8503, Japan
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5
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Azees AA, Thompson AC, Thomas R, Zhou J, Ruther P, Wise AK, Ajay EA, Garrett DJ, Quigley A, Fallon JB, Richardson RT. Spread of activation and interaction between channels with multi-channel optogenetic stimulation in the mouse cochlea. Hear Res 2023; 440:108911. [PMID: 37977051 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2023.108911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
For individuals with severe to profound hearing loss resulting from irreversibly damaged hair cells, cochlear implants can be used to restore hearing by delivering electrical stimulation directly to the spiral ganglion neurons. However, current spread lowers the spatial resolution of neural activation. Since light can be easily confined, optogenetics is a technique that has the potential to improve the precision of neural activation, whereby visible light is used to stimulate neurons that are modified with light-sensitive opsins. This study compares the spread of neural activity across the inferior colliculus of the auditory midbrain during electrical and optical stimulation in the cochlea of acutely deafened mice with opsin-modified spiral ganglion neurons (H134R variant of the channelrhodopsin-2). Monopolar electrical stimulation was delivered via each of four 0.2 mm wide platinum electrode rings at 0.6 mm centre-to-centre spacing, whereas 453 nm wavelength light was delivered via each of five 0.22 × 0.27 mm micro-light emitting diodes (LEDs) at 0.52 mm centre-to-centre spacing. Channel interactions were also quantified by threshold changes during simultaneous stimulation by pairs of electrodes or micro-LEDs at different distances between the electrodes (0.6, 1.2 and 1.8 mm) or micro-LEDs (0.52, 1.04, 1.56 and 2.08 mm). The spread of activation resulting from single channel optical stimulation was approximately half that of monopolar electrical stimulation as measured at two levels of discrimination above threshold (p<0.001), whereas there was no significant difference between optical stimulation in opsin-modified deafened mice and pure tone acoustic stimulation in normal-hearing mice. During simultaneous micro-LED stimulation, there were minimal channel interactions for all micro-LED spacings tested. For neighbouring micro-LEDs/electrodes, the relative influence on threshold was 13-fold less for optical stimulation compared electrical stimulation (p<0.05). The outcomes of this study show that the higher spatial precision of optogenetic stimulation results in reduced channel interaction compared to electrical stimulation, which could increase the number of independent channels in a cochlear implant. Increased spatial resolution and the ability to activate more than one channel simultaneously could lead to better speech perception in cochlear implant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajmal A Azees
- The Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia; Department of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Alex C Thompson
- The Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia; Medical Bionics Department, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ross Thomas
- The Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia
| | - Jenny Zhou
- The Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia
| | - Patrick Ruther
- Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), University of Freiburg, Freiburg 79110, Germany; BrainLinks-BrainTools Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg 79110, Germany
| | - Andrew K Wise
- The Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia; Department of Surgery (Otolaryngology), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia; Medical Bionics Department, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Elise A Ajay
- The Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia; Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David J Garrett
- Department of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Anita Quigley
- Department of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3065, Australia; The Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3065, Australia
| | - James B Fallon
- The Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia; Department of Surgery (Otolaryngology), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia; Medical Bionics Department, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rachael T Richardson
- The Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia; Department of Surgery (Otolaryngology), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3002, Australia; Medical Bionics Department, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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6
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Khurana L, Harczos T, Moser T, Jablonski L. En route to sound coding strategies for optical cochlear implants. iScience 2023; 26:107725. [PMID: 37720089 PMCID: PMC10502376 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Hearing loss is the most common human sensory deficit. Severe-to-complete sensorineural hearing loss is often treated by electrical cochlear implants (eCIs) bypassing dysfunctional or lost hair cells by direct stimulation of the auditory nerve. The wide current spread from each intracochlear electrode array contact activates large sets of tonotopically organized neurons limiting spectral selectivity of sound coding. Despite many efforts, an increase in the number of independent eCI stimulation channels seems impossible to achieve. Light, which can be better confined in space than electric current may help optical cochlear implants (oCIs) to overcome eCI shortcomings. In this review, we present the current state of the optogenetic sound encoding. We highlight optical sound coding strategy development capitalizing on the optical stimulation that requires fine-grained, fast, and power-efficient real-time sound processing controlling dozens of microscale optical emitters as an emerging research area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshay Khurana
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max-Planck-Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
- Junior Research Group “Computational Neuroscience and Neuroengineering”, Göttingen, Germany
- The Doctoral Program “Sensory and Motor Neuroscience”, Göttingen Graduate Center for Neurosciences, Biophysics, and Molecular Biosciences (GGNB), Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tamas Harczos
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Moser
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max-Planck-Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence “Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells” (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Lukasz Jablonski
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
- Junior Research Group “Computational Neuroscience and Neuroengineering”, Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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7
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Almasri RM, Ladouceur F, Mawad D, Esrafilzadeh D, Firth J, Lehmann T, Poole-Warren LA, Lovell NH, Al Abed A. Emerging trends in the development of flexible optrode arrays for electrophysiology. APL Bioeng 2023; 7:031503. [PMID: 37692375 PMCID: PMC10491464 DOI: 10.1063/5.0153753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Optical-electrode (optrode) arrays use light to modulate excitable biological tissues and/or transduce bioelectrical signals into the optical domain. Light offers several advantages over electrical wiring, including the ability to encode multiple data channels within a single beam. This approach is at the forefront of innovation aimed at increasing spatial resolution and channel count in multichannel electrophysiology systems. This review presents an overview of devices and material systems that utilize light for electrophysiology recording and stimulation. The work focuses on the current and emerging methods and their applications, and provides a detailed discussion of the design and fabrication of flexible arrayed devices. Optrode arrays feature components non-existent in conventional multi-electrode arrays, such as waveguides, optical circuitry, light-emitting diodes, and optoelectronic and light-sensitive functional materials, packaged in planar, penetrating, or endoscopic forms. Often these are combined with dielectric and conductive structures and, less frequently, with multi-functional sensors. While creating flexible optrode arrays is feasible and necessary to minimize tissue-device mechanical mismatch, key factors must be considered for regulatory approval and clinical use. These include the biocompatibility of optical and photonic components. Additionally, material selection should match the operating wavelength of the specific electrophysiology application, minimizing light scattering and optical losses under physiologically induced stresses and strains. Flexible and soft variants of traditionally rigid photonic circuitry for passive optical multiplexing should be developed to advance the field. We evaluate fabrication techniques against these requirements. We foresee a future whereby established telecommunications techniques are engineered into flexible optrode arrays to enable unprecedented large-scale high-resolution electrophysiology systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem M. Almasri
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | | | - Damia Mawad
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Dorna Esrafilzadeh
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Josiah Firth
- Australian National Fabrication Facility, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Torsten Lehmann
- School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | | | | | - Amr Al Abed
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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8
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Michael M, Wolf BJ, Klinge-Strahl A, Jeschke M, Moser T, Dieter A. Devising a framework of optogenetic coding in the auditory pathway: Insights from auditory midbrain recordings. Brain Stimul 2023; 16:1486-1500. [PMID: 37778456 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2023.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cochlear implants (CIs) restore activity in the deafened auditory system via electrical stimulation of the auditory nerve. As the spread of electric current in biological tissues is rather broad, the spectral information provided by electrical CIs is limited. Optogenetic stimulation of the auditory nerve has been suggested for artificial sound coding with improved spectral selectivity, as light can be conveniently confined in space. Yet, the foundations for optogenetic sound coding strategies remain to be established. Here, we parametrized stimulus-response-relationships of the auditory pathway in gerbils for optogenetic stimulation. Upon activation of the auditory pathway by waveguide-based optogenetic stimulation of the spiral ganglion, we recorded neuronal activity of the auditory midbrain, in which neural representations of spectral, temporal, and intensity information can be found. Screening a wide range of optical stimuli and taking the properties of optical CI emitters into account, we aimed to optimize stimulus paradigms for potent and energy-efficient activation of the auditory pathway. We report that efficient optogenetic coding builds on neural integration of millisecond stimuli built from microsecond light pulses, which optimally accommodate power-efficient laser diode operation. Moreover, we performed an activity-level-dependent comparison of optogenetic and acoustic stimulation in order to estimate the dynamic range and the maximal stimulation intensity amenable to single channel optogenetic sound encoding, and indicate that it complies well with speech comprehension in a typical conversation (65 dB). Our results provide a first framework for the development of coding strategies for future optogenetic hearing restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Michael
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Bettina Julia Wolf
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany; Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, 37077, Göttingen, Germany; Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Astrid Klinge-Strahl
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany; Department of Otolaryngology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Marcus Jeschke
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany; Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, 37077, Göttingen, Germany; Cognitive Hearing in Primates (CHiP) Group, German Primate Center, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Moser
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany; Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, 37077, Göttingen, Germany; Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany; Auditory Neuroscience and Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Science, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Alexander Dieter
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075, Göttingen, Germany; Göttingen Graduate Center for Neurosciences, Biophysic, and Molecular Biosciences, 37077, Göttingen, Germany; Department of Neurophysiology, MCTN, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167, Mannheim, Germany.
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9
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Zhou Z, Wang X, Li X, Liao L. A bibliometric profile of optogenetics: quantitative and qualitative analyses. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1221316. [PMID: 37424998 PMCID: PMC10323434 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1221316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Optogenetics is a rapidly developing field combining optics and genetics, with promising applications in neuroscience and beyond. However, there is currently a lack of bibliometric analyses examining publications in this area. Method Publications on optogenetics were gathered from the Web of Science Core Collection Database. A quantitative analysis was conducted to gain insights into the annual scientific output, and distribution of authors, journals, subject categories, countries, and institutions. Additionally, qualitative analysis, such as co-occurrence network analysis, thematic analysis, and theme evolution, were performed to identify the main areas and trends of optogenetics articles. Results A total of 6,824 publications were included for analysis. The number of articles has rapidly grown since 2010, with an annual growth rate of 52.82%. Deisseroth K, Boyden ES, and Hegemann P were the most prolific contributors to the field. The United States contributed the most articles (3,051 articles), followed by China (623 articles). A majority of optogenetics-related articles are published in high-quality journals, including NATURE, SCIENCE, and CELL. These articles mainly belong to four subjects: neurosciences, biochemistry and molecular biology, neuroimaging, and materials science. Co-occurrence keyword network analysis identified three clusters: optogenetic components and techniques, optogenetics and neural circuitry, optogenetics and disease. Conclusion The results suggest that optogenetics research is flourishing, focusing on optogenetic techniques and their applications in neural circuitry exploration and disease intervention. Optogenetics is expected to remain a hot topic in various fields in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghan Zhou
- Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Urology, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- China Rehabilitation Science Institute, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Xuesheng Wang
- Department of Urology, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- China Rehabilitation Science Institute, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xunhua Li
- Department of Urology, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- China Rehabilitation Science Institute, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Limin Liao
- Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Urology, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- China Rehabilitation Science Institute, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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10
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Zerche M, Wrobel C, Kusch K, Moser T, Mager T. Channelrhodopsin fluorescent tag replacement for clinical translation of optogenetic hearing restoration. MOLECULAR THERAPY - METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2023; 29:202-212. [PMID: 37081855 PMCID: PMC10111946 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
Sensory restoration by optogenetic neurostimulation provides a promising future alternative to current electrical stimulation approaches. So far, channelrhodopsins (ChRs) typically contain a C-terminal fluorescent protein (FP) tag for visualization that potentially poses an additional risk for clinical translation. Previous work indicated a reduction of optogenetic stimulation efficacy upon FP removal. Here, we further optimized the fast-gating, red-light-activated ChR f-Chrimson to achieve efficient optogenetic stimulation in the absence of the C-terminal FP. Upon FP removal, we observed a massive amplitude reduction of photocurrents in transfected cells in vitro and of optogenetically evoked activity of the adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector-transduced auditory nerve in mice in vivo. Increasing the AAV vector dose restored optogenetically evoked auditory nerve activity but was confounded by neural loss. Of various C-terminal modifications, we found the replacement of the FP by the Kir2.1 trafficking sequence (TSKir2.1) to best restore both photocurrents and optogenetically evoked auditory nerve activity with only mild neural loss few months after dosing. In conclusion, we consider f-Chrimson-TSKir2.1 to be a promising candidate for clinical translation of optogenetic neurostimulation such as by future optical cochlear implants.
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11
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Hunniford V, Kühler R, Wolf B, Keppeler D, Strenzke N, Moser T. Patient perspectives on the need for improved hearing rehabilitation: A qualitative survey study of German cochlear implant users. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1105562. [PMID: 36755736 PMCID: PMC9899842 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1105562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The electrical cochlear implant (eCI) partially restores hearing in individuals affected by profound hearing impairment (HI) or deafness. However, the limited resolution of sound frequency coding with eCIs limits hearing in daily situations such as group conversations. Current research promises future improvements in hearing restoration which may involve gene therapy and optical stimulation of the auditory nerve, using optogenetics. Prior to the potential clinical translation of these technologies, it is critical that patients are engaged in order to align future research agendas and technological advancements with their needs. Methods Here, we performed a survey study with hearing impaired, using an eCI as a means of hearing rehabilitation. We distributed a questionnaire to 180 adult patients from the University Medical Center Göttingen's Department of Otolaryngology who were actively using an eCI for 6 months or more during the time of the survey period. Questions revolved around patients needs, and willingness to accept hypothetical risks or drawbacks associated with an optical CI (oCI). Results Eighty-one participants responded to the questionnaire; 68% were greater than 60 years of age and 26% had bilateral eCIs. Participants expressed a need for improving the performance beyond that experienced with their current eCI. Primarily, they desired improved speech comprehension in background noise, greater ability to appreciate music, and more natural sound impression. They expressed a willingness for engaging with new technologies for improved hearing restoration. Notably, participants were least concerned about hypothetically receiving a gene therapy necessary for the oCI implant; but expressed greater reluctance to hypothetically receiving an implant that had yet to be evaluated in a human clinical trial. Conclusion This work provides a preliminary step in engaging patients in the development of a new technology that has the potential to address the limitations of electrical hearing rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Hunniford
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany,Sensory and Motor Neuroscience, Göttingen Graduate Center for Neurosciences, Biophysics, and Molecular Biosciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Robert Kühler
- Department of Otolaryngology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Bettina Wolf
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany,Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany,Cluster of Excellence “Multiscale Bioimaging: From Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells” (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Daniel Keppeler
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Nicola Strenzke
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany,Department of Otolaryngology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany,Collaborative Research Center 889, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany,Nicola Strenzke,
| | - Tobias Moser
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany,Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany,Cluster of Excellence “Multiscale Bioimaging: From Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells” (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany,Collaborative Research Center 889, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany,Auditory Neuroscience and Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany,*Correspondence: Tobias Moser,
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12
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Helke C, Reinhardt M, Arnold M, Schwenzer F, Haase M, Wachs M, Goßler C, Götz J, Keppeler D, Wolf B, Schaeper J, Salditt T, Moser T, Schwarz UT, Reuter D. On the Fabrication and Characterization of Polymer-Based Waveguide Probes for Use in Future Optical Cochlear Implants. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 16:106. [PMID: 36614443 PMCID: PMC9821155 DOI: 10.3390/ma16010106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Improved hearing restoration by cochlear implants (CI) is expected by optical cochlear implants (oCI) exciting optogenetically modified spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) via an optical pulse generated outside the cochlea. The pulse is guided to the SGNs inside the cochlea via flexible polymer-based waveguide probes. The fabrication of these waveguide probes is realized by using 6" wafer-level micromachining processes, including lithography processes such as spin-coating cladding layers and a waveguide layer in between and etch processes for structuring the waveguide layer. Further adhesion layers and metal layers for laser diode (LD) bonding and light-outcoupling structures are also integrated in this waveguide process flow. Optical microscope and SEM images revealed that the majority of the waveguides are sufficiently smooth to guide light with low intensity loss. By coupling light into the waveguides and detecting the outcoupled light from the waveguide, we distinguished intensity losses caused by bending the waveguide and outcoupling. The probes were used in first modules called single-beam guides (SBGs) based on a waveguide probe, a ball lens and an LD. Finally, these SBGs were tested in animal models for proof-of-concept implantation experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Helke
- Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nanosystems ENAS, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
- Center for Microtechnologies (ZfM), Technical University of Chemnitz, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Markus Reinhardt
- Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nanosystems ENAS, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
- Experimental Sensor Science, Technical University of Chemnitz, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Markus Arnold
- Center for Microtechnologies (ZfM), Technical University of Chemnitz, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Falk Schwenzer
- Center for Microtechnologies (ZfM), Technical University of Chemnitz, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Micha Haase
- Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nanosystems ENAS, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
- Center for Microtechnologies (ZfM), Technical University of Chemnitz, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Matthias Wachs
- Experimental Sensor Science, Technical University of Chemnitz, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Christian Goßler
- Experimental Sensor Science, Technical University of Chemnitz, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Jonathan Götz
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Daniel Keppeler
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Bettina Wolf
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Jannis Schaeper
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
- Multiscale Bioimaging Cluster of Excellence, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Tim Salditt
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
- Multiscale Bioimaging Cluster of Excellence, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Moser
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
- Multiscale Bioimaging Cluster of Excellence, University Medical Center Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany
| | | | - Danny Reuter
- Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nanosystems ENAS, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
- Center for Microtechnologies (ZfM), Technical University of Chemnitz, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
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13
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Zhang H, Fang H, Liu D, Zhang Y, Adu-Amankwaah J, Yuan J, Tan R, Zhu J. Applications and challenges of rhodopsin-based optogenetics in biomedicine. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:966772. [PMID: 36213746 PMCID: PMC9537737 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.966772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Optogenetics is an emerging bioengineering technology that has been rapidly developed in recent years by cross-integrating optics, genetic engineering, electrophysiology, software control, and other disciplines. Since the first demonstration of the millisecond neuromodulation ability of the channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2), the application of optogenetic technology in basic life science research has been rapidly progressed, especially in neurobiology, which has driven the development of the discipline. As the optogenetic tool protein, microbial rhodopsins have been continuously explored, modified, and optimized, with many variants becoming available, with structural characteristics and functions that are highly diversified. Their applicability has been broadened, encouraging more researchers and clinicians to utilize optogenetics technology in research. In this review, we summarize the species and variant types of the most important class of tool proteins in optogenetic techniques, the microbial rhodopsins, and review the current applications of optogenetics based on rhodopsin qualitative light in biology and other fields. We also review the challenges facing this technology, to ultimately provide an in-depth technical reference to support the application of optogenetics in translational and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanci Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Hui Fang
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Deqiang Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Yiming Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Joseph Adu-Amankwaah
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical School, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jinxiang Yuan
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- Lin He’s Academician Workstation of New Medicine and Clinical Translation, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- *Correspondence: Jinxiang Yuan,
| | - Rubin Tan
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical School, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Rubin Tan,
| | - Jianping Zhu
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
- Jianping Zhu,
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14
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Bali B, Gruber-Dujardin E, Kusch K, Rankovic V, Moser T. Analyzing efficacy, stability, and safety of AAV-mediated optogenetic hearing restoration in mice. Life Sci Alliance 2022; 5:e202101338. [PMID: 35512833 PMCID: PMC9258265 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202101338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
AAV-mediated optogenetic neural stimulation has become a clinical approach for restoring function in sensory disorders and feasibility for hearing restoration has been indicated in rodents. Nonetheless, long-term stability and safety of AAV-mediated channelrhodopsin (ChR) expression in spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) remained to be addressed. Here, we used longitudinal studies on mice subjected to early postnatal administration of AAV2/6 carrying fast gating ChR f-Chrimson under the control of the human synapsin promoter unilaterally to the cochlea. f-Chrimson expression in SGNs in both ears and the brain was probed in animals aged 1 mo to 2 yr. f-Chrimson was observed in SGNs at all ages indicating longevity of ChR-expression. SGN numbers in the AAV-injected cochleae declined with age faster than in controls. Investigations were extended to the brain in which viral transduction was observed across the organ at varying degrees irrespective of age without observing viral spread-related pathologies. No viral DNA or virus-related histopathological findings in visceral organs were encountered. In summary, our study demonstrates life-long (24 mo in mice) expression of f-Chrimson in SGNs upon single AAV-dosing of the cochlea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burak Bali
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Göttingen Graduate School for Neurosciences and Molecular Biosciences, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Restorative Cochlear Genomics Group, Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Kathrin Kusch
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Functional Auditory Genomics, Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Vladan Rankovic
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Restorative Cochlear Genomics Group, Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Moser
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Goettingen, Göttingen, Germany
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15
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Khurana L, Keppeler D, Jablonski L, Moser T. Model-based prediction of optogenetic sound encoding in the human cochlea by future optical cochlear implants. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:3621-3629. [PMID: 35860414 PMCID: PMC9283772 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.06.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
When hearing fails, electrical cochlear implants (eCIs) partially restore hearing by direct stimulation of spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs). As light can be better confined in space than electrical current, optical CIs (oCIs) provide more spectral information promising a fundamental improvement of hearing restoration by cochlear implants. Here, we turned to computer modelling for predicting the outcome of optogenetic hearing restoration by future oCIs in humans. We combined three-dimensional reconstruction of the human cochlea with ray-tracing simulation of emission from LED or laser-coupled waveguide emitters of the oCI. Irradiance was read out at the somata of SGNs. The irradiance values reached with waveguides were about 14 times higher than with LEDs, at the same radiant flux of the emitter. Moreover, waveguides outperformed LEDs regarding spectral selectivity. oCIs with either emitter type showed greater spectral selectivity when compared to eCI. In addition, modeling the effects of the source-to-SGN distance, orientation of the sources and impact of scar tissue further informs the development of optogenetic hearing restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshay Khurana
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience & Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
- Göttingen Graduate Center for Neurosciences, Biophysics, and Molecular Biosciences (GGNB), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Daniel Keppeler
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience & Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Lukasz Jablonski
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Moser
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience & Synaptic Nanophysiology Group, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence “Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells” (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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16
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Eickenscheidt M, Herrmann T, Weisshap M, Mittnacht A, Rudmann L, Zeck G, Stieglitz T. An optoelectronic neural interface approach for precise superposition of optical and electrical stimulation in flexible array structures. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 205:114090. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION More than 5% of the world's population have a disabling hearing loss which can be managed by hearing aids or implanted electrical devices. However, outcomes are highly variable, and the sound perceived by recipients is far from perfect. Sparked by the discovery of progenitor cells in the cochlea and rapid progress in drug delivery to the cochlea, biological and pharmaceutical therapies are currently in development to improve the function of the cochlear implant or eliminate the need for it altogether. AREAS COVERED This review highlights progress in emerging regenerative strategies to restore hearing and adjunct therapies to augment the cochlear implant. Novel approaches include the reprogramming of progenitor cells to restore the sensory hair cell population in the cochlea, gene therapy and gene editing to treat hereditary and acquired hearing loss. A detailed review of optogenetics is also presented as a technique that could enable optical stimulation of the spiral ganglion neurons, replacing or complementing electrical stimulation. EXPERT OPINION Increasing evidence of substantial reversal of hearing loss in animal models, alongside rapid advances in delivery strategies to the cochlea and learnings from clinical trials will amalgamate into a biological or pharmaceutical therapy to replace or complement the cochlear implant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Ajay
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,University of Melbourne, Department of Engineering
| | | | - Rachael Richardson
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,University of Melbourne, Medical Bionics Department, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,University of Melbourne, Department of Surgery (Otolaryngology), East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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18
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Brant JA, Adewole DO, Vitale F, Cullen DK. Bioengineering applications for hearing restoration: emerging biologically inspired and biointegrated designs. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2021; 72:131-138. [PMID: 34826683 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cochlear implantation has become the standard of care for hearing loss not amenable to amplification by bypassing the structures of the cochlea and stimulating the spiral ganglion neurons directly. Since the first single channel electrodes were implanted, significant advancements have been made: multi-channel arrays are now standard, they are softer to avoid damage to the cochlea and pre-curved to better position the electrode array adjacent to the nerve, and surgical and stimulation techniques have helped to conform to the anatomy and physiology of the cochlea. However, even with these advances the experience does not approach that of normal hearing. In order to make significant advances in performance, the next generation of implants will require novel interface technology. Advances in regenerative techniques, optogenetics, piezoelectric materials, and bioengineered living scaffolds hold the promise for the next generation of implantable hearing devices, and hope for the restoration of natural hearing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason A Brant
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, 240 S. 33rd St., 301 Hayden Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Dayo O Adewole
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, 240 S. 33rd St., 301 Hayden Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied, Science, University of Pennsylvania, 220 S 33rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, 3320 Smith Walk, 105 Hayden Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Center for Neuroengineering & Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Flavia Vitale
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, 240 S. 33rd St., 301 Hayden Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied, Science, University of Pennsylvania, 220 S 33rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Center for Neuroengineering & Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Daniel K Cullen
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, 240 S. 33rd St., 301 Hayden Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied, Science, University of Pennsylvania, 220 S 33rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, 3320 Smith Walk, 105 Hayden Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Center for Neuroengineering & Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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19
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Ahmed Z, Reddy JW, Malekoshoaraie MH, Hassanzade V, Kimukin I, Jain V, Chamanzar M. Flexible optoelectric neural interfaces. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2021; 72:121-130. [PMID: 34826682 PMCID: PMC9741731 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2021.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the neural basis of brain function and dysfunction and designing effective therapeutics require high resolution targeted stimulation and recording of neural activity. Optical methods have been recently developed for neural stimulation as well as functional and structural imaging. These methods call for implantable devices to deliver light into the neural tissue at depth with high spatiotemporal resolution. To address this need, rigid and flexible neurophotonic implants have been recently designed. This article reviews the state-of-the-art flexible passive and active penetrating optical neural probes developed for light delivery with minimal damage to the tissue. Passive and active flexible neurophotonic implants are compared and insights about future directions are provided.
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20
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Viral-mediated transduction of auditory neurons with opsins for optical and hybrid activation. Sci Rep 2021; 11:11229. [PMID: 34045604 PMCID: PMC8160204 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-90764-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Optical stimulation is a paradigm-shifting approach to modulating neural activity that has the potential to overcome the issue of current spread that occurs with electrical stimulation by providing focused stimuli. But optical stimulation either requires high power infrared light or genetic modification of neurons to make them responsive to lower power visible light. This work examines optical activation of auditory neurons following optogenetic modification via AAV injection in two species (mouse and guinea pig). An Anc80 viral vector was used to express the channelrhodopsin variant ChR2-H134R fused to a fluorescent reporter gene under the control of the human synapsin-1 promoter. The AAV was administered directly to the cochlea (n = 33) or posterior semi-circular canal of C57BL/6 mice (n = 4) or to guinea pig cochleae (n = 6). Light (488 nm), electrical stimuli or the combination of these (hybrid stimulation) was delivered to the cochlea via a laser-coupled optical fibre and co-located platinum wire. Activation thresholds, spread of activation and stimulus interactions were obtained from multi-unit recordings from the central nucleus of the inferior colliculus of injected mice, as well as ChR2-H134R transgenic mice (n = 4). Expression of ChR2-H134R was examined by histology. In the mouse, transduction of auditory neurons by the Anc80 viral vector was most successful when injected at a neonatal age with up to 89% of neurons transduced. Auditory neuron transductions were not successful in guinea pigs. Inferior colliculus responses to optical stimuli were detected in a cochleotopic manner in all mice with ChR2-H134R expression. There was a significant correlation between lower activation thresholds in mice and higher proportions of transduced neurons. There was no difference in spread of activation between optical stimulation and electrical stimulation provided by the light/electrical delivery system used here (optical fibre with bonded 25 µm platinum/iridium wire). Hybrid stimulation, comprised of sub-threshold optical stimulation to 'prime' or raise the excitability of the neurons, lowered the threshold for electrical activation in most cases, but the impact on excitation width was more variable compared to transgenic mice. This study demonstrates the impact of opsin expression levels and expression pattern on optical and hybrid stimulation when considering optical or hybrid stimulation techniques for neuromodulation.
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21
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Keppeler D, Kampshoff CA, Thirumalai A, Duque-Afonso CJ, Schaeper JJ, Quilitz T, Töpperwien M, Vogl C, Hessler R, Meyer A, Salditt T, Moser T. Multiscale photonic imaging of the native and implanted cochlea. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2014472118. [PMID: 33903231 PMCID: PMC8106341 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2014472118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The cochlea of our auditory system is an intricate structure deeply embedded in the temporal bone. Compared with other sensory organs such as the eye, the cochlea has remained poorly accessible for investigation, for example, by imaging. This limitation also concerns the further development of technology for restoring hearing in the case of cochlear dysfunction, which requires quantitative information on spatial dimensions and the sensorineural status of the cochlea. Here, we employed X-ray phase-contrast tomography and light-sheet fluorescence microscopy and their combination for multiscale and multimodal imaging of cochlear morphology in species that serve as established animal models for auditory research. We provide a systematic reference for morphological parameters relevant for cochlear implant development for rodent and nonhuman primate models. We simulate the spread of light from the emitters of the optical implants within the reconstructed nonhuman primate cochlea, which indicates a spatially narrow optogenetic excitation of spiral ganglion neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Keppeler
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christoph A Kampshoff
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Otolaryngology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Anupriya Thirumalai
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Carlos J Duque-Afonso
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jannis J Schaeper
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tabea Quilitz
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Mareike Töpperwien
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christian Vogl
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Alexander Meyer
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Otolaryngology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tim Salditt
- Institute for X-ray Physics, University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: From Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells," University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Moser
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany;
- InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Otolaryngology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: From Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells," University of Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
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22
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Huet AT, Dombrowski T, Rankovic V, Thirumalai A, Moser T. Developing Fast, Red-Light Optogenetic Stimulation of Spiral Ganglion Neurons for Future Optical Cochlear Implants. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:635897. [PMID: 33776648 PMCID: PMC7991399 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.635897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic stimulation of type I spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) promises an alternative to the electrical stimulation by current cochlear implants (CIs) for improved hearing restoration by future optical CIs (oCIs). Most of the efforts in using optogenetic stimulation in the cochlea so far used early postnatal injection of viral vectors carrying blue-light activated channelrhodopsins (ChRs) into the cochlea of mice. However, preparing clinical translation of the oCI requires (i) reliable and safe transduction of mature SGNs of further species and (ii) use of long-wavelength light to avoid phototoxicity. Here, we employed a fast variant of the red-light activated channelrhodopsin Chrimson (f-Chrimson) and different AAV variants to implement optogenetic SGN stimulation in Mongolian gerbils. We compared early postnatal (p8) and adult (>8 weeks) AAV administration, employing different protocols for injection of AAV-PHP.B and AAV2/6 into the adult cochlea. Success of the optogenetic manipulation was analyzed by optically evoked auditory brainstem response (oABR) and immunohistochemistry of mid-modiolar cryosections of the cochlea. In order to most efficiently evaluate the immunohistochemical results a semi-automatic procedure to identify transduced cells in confocal images was developed. Our results indicate that the rate of SGN transduction is significantly lower for AAV administration into the adult cochlea compared to early postnatal injection. SGN transduction upon AAV administration into the adult cochlea was largely independent of the chosen viral vector and injection approach. The higher the rate of SGN transduction, the lower were oABR thresholds and the larger were oABR amplitudes. Our results highlight the need to optimize viral vectors and virus administration for efficient optogenetic manipulation of SGNs in the adult cochlea for successful clinical translation of SGN-targeting gene therapy and of the oCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Tarquin Huet
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Dombrowski
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, St. Elisabeth Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Collaborative Research Center 889, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Vladan Rankovic
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
- Restorative Cochlear Genomics Group, Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Anupriya Thirumalai
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Göttingen Graduate School for Neurosciences and Molecular Biosciences, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Moser
- Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
- Collaborative Research Center 889, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Multiscale Bioimaging Cluster of Excellence (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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23
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Wrobel C, Zafeiriou MP, Moser T. Understanding and treating paediatric hearing impairment. EBioMedicine 2021; 63:103171. [PMID: 33422987 PMCID: PMC7808910 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2020.103171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensorineural hearing impairment is the most frequent form of hearing impairment affecting 1-2 in 1000 newborns and another 1 in 1000 adolescents. More than 50% of congenital hearing impairment is of genetic origin and some forms of monogenic deafness are likely targets for future gene therapy. Good progress has been made in clinical phenotyping, genetic diagnostics, and counselling. Disease modelling, e.g. in transgenic mice, has helped elucidate disease mechanisms underlying genetic hearing impairment and informed clinical phenotyping in recent years. Clinical management of paediatric hearing impairment involves hearing aids, cochlear or brainstem implants, signal-to-noise improvement in educational settings, speech therapy, and sign language. Cochlear implants, for example, have much improved the situation of profoundly hearing impaired and deaf children. Nonetheless there remains a major unmet clinical need for improving hearing restoration. Preclinical studies promise that we will witness clinical trials on gene therapy and a next generation of cochlear implants during the coming decade. Moreover, progress in generating sensory hair cells and neurons from stem cells spurs disease modelling, drug screening, and regenerative approaches. This review briefly summarizes the pathophysiology of paediatric hearing impairment and provides an update on the current preclinical development of innovative approaches toward improved hearing restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Wrobel
- Department of Otolaryngology and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37099 Göttingen, Germany; Multiscale Bioimaging Cluster of Excellence (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Germany
| | - Maria-Patapia Zafeiriou
- Multiscale Bioimaging Cluster of Excellence (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Germany; Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tobias Moser
- Multiscale Bioimaging Cluster of Excellence (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Germany; Institute for Auditory Neuroscience and InnerEarLab, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37099 Göttingen, Germany.
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24
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Abstract
Electrical cochlear implants (CI) currently lack the frequency and intensity resolution to allow detection of complex sounds in background noise. The use of microscale optoelectronics in conjunction with optogenetics provides a promising direction in CI technology to allow improvements in spectral resolution, providing a richer soundscape for users. The present work offers the first instance of using multi-channel μLED-based optical CI to demonstrate optogenetic activation of auditory neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siân R Kitcher
- Section on Neuronal CircuitryNational Institute on Deafness and Other Communication DisordersNIHBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Catherine JC Weisz
- Section on Neuronal CircuitryNational Institute on Deafness and Other Communication DisordersNIHBethesdaMDUSA
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