A Stretchable Optogenetic Probe for Wireless Control of Bladder Nociception

Wireless optogenetic systems enable precise manipulation of neural circuits in freely moving animals. However, challenges in accommodating tissue deformation and ensuring stable light delivery limit their application in dynamic organs such as the bladder. Here, we present a fully implantable wireless optogenetic system that addresses these challenges through a bioinspired design, incorporating an intrinsically stretchable polyurethane elastomer tube that encases microscale inorganic light-emitting diodes (µ-ILEDs) and associated electrodes. This design minimizes localized strains and maintains device integrity under cyclic tissue deformation. The system operates at 13.56 MHz via magnetic resonant coupling (MRC) for robust wireless power transfer and programmable light control, ensuring efficient energy harvesting across diverse environments. In vivo application in a mouse model of cyclophosphamide (CYP)-induced acute cystitis demonstrated that optogenetic activation of the inhibitory opsin ArchT in TRPV1-lineage sensory neurons modulated nociceptive signaling, as suggested by behavioral changes in a place preference assay. Additionally, the implant did not induce fibrotic encapsulation during the 8-day implantation period, suggesting favorable acute in vivo biocompatibility. These findings demonstrate the utility of this system for localized neuromodulation in deformable visceral tissues, with effective in vivo validation using a mouse model of bladder nociception.