H2020STARDUST

H2020STARDUST is located in Aarhus, Denmark on Nordre Ringgade 1. H2020STARDUST is rated 3 out of 5 in the category medical devices in Denmark. The main goal of the STARDUST project is to realize a novel wireless implantable and independent micro-scale device (200x200x200 μm3) enabling in-vivo electrophysiology, optogenetics and ultra-localized drug delivery in freely moving animals. The device will be used to target specific neural circuits of the brain and test a new therapeutic approach for Parkinson’s Disease. The methods used in this project are based on cutting-edge miniaturized technology combining integrated chips, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), local drug delivery, integrated electrodes and micro-scale light emitting diodes (μLEDs), enabling an implantable ultrasonically-powered miniaturized device for in-vivo optogenetics, local drug delivery and electrophysiological monitoring – all in one single device. The main novelty of the STARDUST project is the convergence of multiple, interdisciplinary fields including optogenetics, triggered drug-delivery, miniaturized ultrasonic energy harvesting, material science and nanoelectronics. The main ambition of the project is to develop a new technology platform to be used for future implantable in-vivo optogenetic devices for monitoring and treating diseases, with an optional local drug delivery add-on beyond 2025. Establishing proof of concept of the STARDUST platform will be the foundation for other applications within photodynamic therapy such as cancer treatment and other neurological and non-neurological disorders. This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No. 767092