Laser-based diagnostics and therapeutics show promise for many neurological disorders. However, the poortransparency of the cranial bone limits the spatial resolution and interaction depth that can be achieved withthese technologies. We have recently demonstrated a new method to address this challenge in biomedical researchthrough the use of a novel transparent cranial implant made from nanocrystalline yttria-stabilized zirconia (nc-YSZ). In addition, we have also explored the use of optical clearing agents (OCAs) to achieve a local, reversibleand temporal reduction of the scalp scattering prior light irradiation. Our results show that the transparentnc-YSZ implants coupled with the OCAs perform well in providing enhanced optical access to the brain tissue,without need for recurrent craniotomies or scalp removal.
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