Interfacing neurons with carbon nanotubes: electrical signal transfer and synaptic stimulation in cultured brain circuits.
J Neurosci
; 27(26): 6931-6, 2007 Jun 27.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-17596441
ABSTRACT
The unique properties of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) and the application of nanotechnology to the nervous system may have a tremendous impact in the future developments of microsystems for neural prosthetics as well as immediate benefits for basic research. Despite increasing interest in neuroscience nanotechnologies, little is known about the electrical interactions between nanomaterials and neurons. We developed an integrated SWNT-neuron system to test whether electrical stimulation delivered via SWNT can induce neuronal signaling. To that aim, hippocampal cells were grown on pure SWNT substrates and patch clamped. We compared neuronal responses to voltage steps delivered either via conductive SWNT substrates or via the patch pipette. Our experimental results, supported by mathematical models to describe the electrical interactions occurring in SWNT-neuron hybrid systems, clearly indicate that SWNTs can directly stimulate brain circuit activity.
Texto completo:
1
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Próteses e Implantes
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Transmissão Sináptica
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Nanotecnologia
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Nanotubos de Carbono
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Hipocampo
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Neurônios
Limite:
Animals
Idioma:
En
Revista:
J Neurosci
Ano de publicação:
2007
Tipo de documento:
Article
País de afiliação:
Itália