Light tnstead of current: Activation of neurons with light by means of semiconductor photoelectrodes
Friday, February 20, 2009 - 09:35
in Biology & Nature
(PhysOrg.com) -- Understanding the mechanisms by which the brain functions is one of the most complex challenges in science. One important aspect is the electrical conduction of stimuli in nerve cells. In order to study neuronal circuits, a sharp metal electrode is usually inserted into the brain to introduce a current. However, the response does not reflect the highly complex activation patterns of natural nerve stimuli.