Scientists have learned to control brain neurons without surgeries and implanted electrodes - this approach was proposed by Russian scientists. They have developed nanoparticles that, under the influence of a weak magnetic field, can affect the functioning of nerve cells. The study was conducted by specialists from Tomsk Polytechnic University together with colleagues from Skoltech, TSU, the Institute of Catalysis of the SB RAS and other scientific centers.
Usually, metal electrodes implanted in tissues are used for neuromodulation. This requires surgical intervention and is associated with risks - infection, trauma and implant rejection.
Russian scientists have proposed another solution. They created biocompatible magnetoelectric nanoparticles less than 30 nanometers in size - hundreds of times smaller than blood cells. The particles were obtained using microwave hydrothermal synthesis.
Inside is a superparamagnetic core made of manganese ferrite, and outside is a lead-free barium titanate shell. This structure allows you to convert a magnetic field into an electrical signal - and it is this signal that neurons perceive.
During the experiments, scientists changed the synthesis parameters - temperature, alkali concentration and reaction time. The best result was shown by particles obtained at a temperature of 185°C.
They increase the flow of calcium ions into neurons by three times - this is a key mechanism of the nervous system - and activate 20% more cells compared to analogues.
Tests have shown that at a concentration of up to 30 μg/ml, sufficient for therapy, nanoparticles are not toxic to cells.
The technology can be adapted to various tasks - from pain treatment and recovery after a stroke to therapy for depression, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. In the near future, the team plans to move on to animal studies.
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