Nanometric resolution magnetic resonance imaging methods for mapping functional activity in neuronal networks

Area of Science:

• Quantum sensing
• Nanoscale imaging
• Diamond physics

Background:

• Nitrogen vacancy (NV) centers in diamond are luminescent color centers with unique spin properties.
• Optical and magnetic resonance techniques are crucial for probing these centers.
• Achieving nanoscale resolution in magnetic resonance imaging is a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight and compare recent achievements in imaging techniques applied to NV centers.
• To demonstrate the capability of NV centers for nanoscale magnetic resonance imaging (nanoMRI).
• To showcase nanometric NV real space localization and its applications.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing k-space and real space imaging techniques (scanning probe and wide-field microscopy).
• Combining imaging with optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) of NV centers.
• Leveraging NV centers as atomic-sized, optically detectable spin probes.

Main Results:

• Achieved nanometric resolution for magnetic resonance imaging of nearby nuclear spins (nanoMRI).
• Demonstrated nanometric real space localization of NV centers.
• Showcased high magnetic field sensitivity and nanometric resolution capabilities.

Conclusions:

• NV centers in diamond offer a unique platform for nanoscale MRI and spin localization.
• These techniques enable non-invasive mapping of functional activity in neuronal networks.
• The study underscores the potential of NV-based nanoMRI for advanced scientific investigations.