A merger of technologies involving (a) polymer fiber optics, lb) polymer phthalocyanine photo voltaics and (c) electrode cell adhesion surf@ices has resulted in the concept of a novel electrode prosthesis which uses fine (5 - 10 p) polymer optical fibers instead of metal wires. Using a photo conversion mechanism at their ends, these f'ibers convert light energy to at negative electrical pulse in the 100 mv range. liitiiii@itc attachment of these fiber ends to target cells by use of' nonspecific (e.g., polylysine) or specific (monoclonal[ Liiitibodv or cell adhesion molecule) surt'aces allows the target cells to be 1-ired. Such an approach enhances the possibility of high density electrode svstems and speci'l'icitv thereof.The potential c-oti7iiiercial application as described by the Liwardee: Such neural prostheses are directed toward improving neural prostheses, muscle prostheses in spinal injuries and potentially visual prostheses in visual cortex arrays. Electrode prostheses represents a multi-billion dollar market with more significant human benefits.
