Record #1023392 - RWTH Publications

BRAINMASTER

Bidirectional remote deep brain control with magnetic anisotropic nanomaterials

Grant period	2024-01-01 - 2028-12-31
Funding body	European Union
	CORDIS
Call number	ERC-2023-STG
Grant number	101116410
Identifier	G:(EU-Grant)101116410

Note: Anisotropic nanomagnetite for bidirectional wireless deep brain control. A new era in neuromodulation is emerging, driven by the potential of functional materials to control neural activity. Analysing neural signals could create a feedback loop for therapy or compensate for lost functions. However, current methods often rely on large, chronically implanted hardware, which raises safety concerns and suffers from poor resolution. The ERC-funded BRAINMASTER project will develop a wireless and minimally invasive neuromodulation method using magnetic nanodiscs (MNDs). These MNDs will convert magnetic forces into signals for specific neurons while simultaneously enabling magnetic resonance imaging to monitor calcium (Ca2+) transients. The innovative interface will facilitate cognitive training and treatment for various disorders, including early Alzheimer’s disease (demonstrated in a rodent model), without the need for implanted hardware.