Magnetic nanodisks will help stimulate the brain without implantation. Potential uses of the tools are described in the journal Nature Nanotechnology.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) requires electrodes to be implanted in the brain to stimulate specific areas. The method is used to treat symptoms of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Parkinson's disease and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Despite its effectiveness, stimulation is used in exceptional cases due to the complexity of the procedure and possible complications.
Scientists from the Anikeeva bioelectronics group tested magnetic disks measuring about 250 nanometers (500 times thinner than a human hair). They were injected into certain areas of the mice's brain. The disks were then activated by a magnetic field. This led to changes in the activity of the animals' nerve cells, as well as changes in their behavior.
Previously, other scientists had proposed similar methods, but they required genetic modification, which is impossible to treat in humans.
The authors are now exploring ways to further improve the effectiveness of the method. After additional animal studies prove the effectiveness and safety of the method, the authors hope to move on to trials with patients.
