On the mechanisms of infrared stimulation in auditory neurons

Infrared neural stimulation (INS) is an emerging technique for nerve stimulation that has the potential to improve the performance of bionic devices. Despite showing promise for use in auditory prostheses (cochlear implants), the mechanisms of INS in the cochlea are not well understood. This thesis outlines a detailed investigation into the mechanisms of infrared stimulation of auditory neurons. Experimental studies were combined with mathematical modelling to characterise the electrical behaviour of auditory neurons in response to infrared illumination. Results suggest that the threshold laser energy required for infrared stimulation in auditory neurons is higher than previously reported.