10/03/2011 PERMALINK
Direct neuron/machine data transmission achieved by embedded nano magnets in neuron-controlling ion channels. University at Buffalo scientists have used magnetic nanoparticles to remotely control ion channels, neurons in cell culture and even the movement of a tiny worm. "Our early understanding about the brain's functional regions came from patients who showed changes in their behavior after losing a part of their brain to traumatic brain injury or a tumor," said Arnd Pralle, the assistant professor of physics who is leading the new UB study. "The ability to now reversibly turn individual cells off or on and to observe the animal's behavior brings us finally to the level of the actual neurological circuit, which is extremely exciting."