Fiber-based Optrodes: Dual Optical and Electrical Probe for Optogenetics

A microfabricated fiber-based optrode is presented, which performs simultaneous light delivery and electrophysiological recording. The fabrication approach assures minimal tissue damage during insertion. The device consists of a tapered fiber tip and three separate metal electrodes deposited on the cylindrical surface of the optical fiber. The tapered fiber tip enables precise light emission, as well as reliable light delivery to the targeted volume of brain tissue. Our custom precision fiber lateral and angular alignment setup allows us to fabricate a novel fiber based optrode with three separate equidistant metal electrodes along the fiber up to the fiber tip. Here we present our fabrication approach.