Publication
Title
Interfacing neurons with carbon nanotubes : electrical signal transfer and synaptic stimulation in cultured brain circuits
Author
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 SWNTneuron 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 SWNTneuron hybrid systems, clearly indicate that SWNTs can directly stimulate brain circuit activity.
Language
English
Source (journal)
The journal of neuroscience. - Baltimore, Md
Publication
Baltimore, Md : 2007
ISSN
0270-6474 [Print]
1529-2401 [Online]
DOI
10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1051-07.2007
Volume/pages
23 :26 (2007) , p. 6931-6936
ISI
000247619600008
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Publication type
Subject
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 10.02.2011
Last edited 28.01.2023
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