Near natural hearing restoration through waveguide-based optical cochlear implants

Introduction

OptoWavePro aims to develop a human prototype for an optical stimulator for optogenetic hearing restoration in individuals with profound hearing impairment. Leveraging optogenetics and biomedical engineering, we strive to restore near-natural hearing by precise optogenetic control of the auditory nerve for which we obtained preclinical proof.

Project Goals

Our multidisciplinary team will design, fabricate, and validate the stimulator, emphasizing safety, efficacy, and regulatory compliance. Preclinical studies will validate efficacy, reliability, and biocompatibility to prepare for clinical trials.

Technological Innovation

The OptoWavePro consortium will introduce a new paradigm of integrating arrays of laser diodes, micro-lenses, and polymer-based waveguides in minimal space for the optical stimulator to meet the required form factor of the optical cochlear implant.

Upscaling Optical Stimulation Channels

We will facilitate the upscaling of optical stimulation channels by combining custom-designed and complementary elements with lateral channel pitches of only 100 micrometers throughout the optical pathway.

Engineering Focus

Our biomedical engineering focuses on achieving efficacy and safety by housing all electronic components in a hermetically sealed titanium housing with optical feedthroughs and efficient and stable light in- and out-coupling of the waveguide array.

Impact

The optical cochlear implant has the potential to revolutionize hearing restoration, merging scientific innovation with clinical impact, and transforming lives globally.