Magnetic-Driven Torque-Induced Electrical Stimulation for Millisecond-Scale Wireless Neuromodulation

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Conventional deep brain stimulation (DBS) faces challenges with hardware implants and precise temporal control.
• Nanoparticle-based wireless neuromodulation offers a minimally invasive alternative but requires millisecond-scale precision.
• Existing magnetostriction-based systems have limitations in achieving rapid and controlled neuronal modulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel wireless neuromodulation technique for precise temporal control of neuronal activity.
• To introduce magnetic-driven torque-induced electrical stimulation (MagTIES) as a solution for millisecond-scale deep brain stimulation.
• To demonstrate the efficacy of MagTIES in modulating neuronal activity in vitro and in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Utilized magnetic nanodiscs to generate torque under alternating magnetic fields (AMFs).
• Employed a torque-based magnetoelectric approach inducing a piezoelectric effect in nanoparticles.
• Applied AMF (50 mT at ≈10 Hz) for MagTIES activation.

Main Results:

• MagTIES successfully triggered neuronal activity in vitro and in vivo within milliseconds.
• Demonstrated precise temporal control of neuronal activity in the amygdala.
• Showcased the ability to fine-tune amygdala brain oscillations by modulating AMF frequency.

Conclusions:

• MagTIES offers high spatial and temporal precision for neuromodulation with minimal invasiveness.
• This innovative approach advances neuroscience research and has potential therapeutic applications.
• MagTIES overcomes limitations of traditional magnetostriction-based neuromodulation systems.