Terahertz Radiation Modulates Neuronal Morphology and Dynamics Properties.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biophysics
• Terahertz Spectroscopy

Background:

• Terahertz (THz) radiation interacts with biological macromolecules due to absorption and resonance in the hydrogen bonding, molecular rotation, vibration, and van der Waals forces spectrum.
• Specific THz frequencies and energies can alter cellular morphology and function by inducing nonlinear resonance effects in proteins, but studies are limited to the cellular level.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the mechanisms and methods by which terahertz radiation modulates the nervous system and individual neurons.
• To review and discuss the influence of terahertz radiation on neuronal morphology and kinetic properties, considering frequency, energy, and time.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of existing research on terahertz radiation's interaction with biological systems.
• Review and discussion of experimental findings on neuronal responses to terahertz stimuli.
• Exploration of terahertz radiation parameters (frequency, energy, time) influencing neuronal modulation.

Main Results:

• Terahertz radiation exhibits resonance with biological macromolecules, impacting cellular functions.
• Specific terahertz parameters can alter neuronal morphology and kinetic properties, though mechanisms remain unclear.
• Current research primarily focuses on cellular-level effects, lacking multi-level systematic investigation.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the mechanisms of terahertz radiation's influence on neurons is crucial for advancing neuroscience.
• Future research should prioritize safety criteria, improve spatial resolution of terahertz systems, and conduct multi-level investigations.
• This work provides a foundation for researchers exploring terahertz-nervous system interactions and future applications.