Long-Term Multiparameter Sensing Integrated On-Chip Ultrasound for Epileptic Neuron Modulation

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Cellular Biology

Background:

• Ultrasound neuromodulation shows promise for neurological disorders, but its molecular mechanisms and safety are not well understood.
• Standardized methods for evaluating therapeutic outcomes and safety are lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively assess ultrasound neuromodulation's therapeutic effects on neurological diseases using on-chip technology.
• To investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms and long-term safety of ultrasound neuromodulation.
• To develop a standardized approach for evaluating ultrasound therapies.

Main Methods:

• Integration of on-chip ultrasound with multiparameter cellular monitoring (electrophysiology, metabolism, temperature, calcium).
• Long-term monitoring for comprehensive safety evaluation.
• Utilizing an on-chip epileptic neuron model to study therapeutic responses.

Main Results:

• Epileptic neurons exhibit synchronized oscillations in excitability, temperature, and calcium levels.
• On-chip ultrasound suppressed epileptiform discharges, oscillations, and neuronal bursting.
• Sodium valproate-loaded nanobubbles enhanced antiepileptic effects by maintaining mitochondrial calcium homeostasis.

Conclusions:

• This study provides a deeper understanding of ultrasound neuromodulation mechanisms through integrated monitoring.
• The developed approach facilitates standardized evaluation and long-term safety assessment of ultrasound therapies.
• On-chip ultrasound shows potential for treating neurological disorders like epilepsy.