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Multimodal Characterization of Cortical Neuron Response to Permanent Magnetic Field Induced Nanomagnetic Force Maps
Connor L Beck1, Andrew M Kirby1, Samuel Roberts2
1Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana 59717, United States.
ACS Nano
|December 10, 2024
Summary
Low piconewton nanomagnetic forces precisely control cortical neuron activity. Varying magnetic nanoparticle interactions and force magnitudes can selectively modulate neuronal function and electrophysiological responses.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biophysics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Nanomagnetic forces offer precise mechanical stimulation to biological systems.
- Cortical neurons exhibit calcium influx and altered firing rates in response to nanomagnetic forces.
- The detailed effects of nanomagnetic force modulation on neuronal function require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the in vitro functional response of cortical neurons to mechanical cues delivered by nanomagnetic forces.
- To investigate the relationship between force magnitude, nanoparticle interaction, and neuronal electrophysiological and calcium signaling.
- To explore the potential of harnessing nanomagnetic forces for targeted neuronal modulation.
Main Methods:
- Integration of electrophysiological (microelectrode arrays) and optical recording techniques.
- Application of chitosan-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles to cortical neurons.
- Exposure of neurons to controlled magnetic fields generating forces ranging from 2-160 pN.
Main Results:
- Forces of 2-8 pN induced a specific increase in electrophysiological spiking, with a trend towards reduced activity after 2 minutes.
- Forces in the 16-160 pN range elevated electrophysiological activity, maintaining excitation for up to 4 hours.
- Neuronal responses to 16-160 pN forces could be mediated electrophysiologically without calcium influx by altering nanoparticle-neuron interactions.
Conclusions:
- Low piconewton (pN) nanomagnetic forces are sufficient to modulate cortical neuron function.
- The magnitude of nanomagnetic force and magnetic nanoparticle-neuron interactions can be tuned to elicit distinct neuronal responses.
- This study highlights the potential of nanomagnetic tools for precise control of neuronal activity.
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