INST Researchers Develop Nanomaterial To Interact Directly With Neurons

Researchers at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), an autonomous body under the Department of Science and Technology, have created a nanomaterial capable of naturally interacting with neurons.

According to the team, this innovation has the potential to revolutionise the treatment of brain-related disorders.

The nanomaterial, known as graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄), is able to activate neurons without the aid of electrodes, magnets, or lasers.

Findings published in ‘ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces’ show that g-C₃N₄ promotes neuronal growth, maturation, and communication by harnessing the brain’s own electrical signals.

Dr Manish Singh of INST, who led the work, explained, “This is the first demonstration of semiconducting nanomaterials directly modulating neurons without external stimulation.”

“It opens new therapeutic avenues for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s,” he further asserted.

Experiments revealed that the nanomaterial boosted dopamine levels in cultured brain-like cells. It also lowered harmful proteins associated with Parkinson’s in animal studies.

Current therapies, including deep brain stimulation (DBS), often involve surgical devices. Other options rely on waves such as ultrasound or magnetic fields.

These approaches can be effective but are invasive or have limitations.

Graphitic carbon nitride, by contrast, can interact directly with neurons.

Placed near nerve cells, it generates small electric fields in response to natural voltage changes in the brain. These fields activate calcium channels, encouraging growth and strengthening connections, without any external tools.

Acting like a sensitive switch, the material adapts to both resting and active states of neurons. This helps maintain healthy brain function.

Because it is biocompatible and capable of reducing proteins linked to disease, the nanomaterial holds promise as a non-invasive therapy for millions.

Beyond healthcare, the breakthrough may also advance emerging areas such as ‘brainware computing’.

Scientists worldwide are developing brain organoids, miniature brain-like tissues, as biological processors.

Combining them with semiconducting nanomaterials such as g-C₃N₄ could enhance their efficiency, offering new opportunities in bio-inspired computing.

The researchers stressed that further preclinical and clinical testing will be needed before it can be applied in humans.

“We believe this marks a paradigm shift in neuromodulation research,” noted Dr Singh. “From treating brain injuries to managing neurodegeneration, semiconducting nanomaterials hold immense promise for the future.”

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