Induction of Calcium Influx in Cortical Neural Networks by Nanomagnetic Forces.

Tay, Andy; Kunze, Anja; Murray, Coleman; Di Carlo, Dino · ACS Nano · 2016

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Nanomagnetic force stimulation with ferromagnetic nanoparticles was found to trigger calcium influx in cortical neural networks without observable cytotoxicity. Stimulated neural networks showed an average of 20% increment in calcium fluorescence signals and a heightened frequency in calcium spiking. These effects were also confined spatially to areas with engineered high magnetic field gradients. Furthermore, blockage of N-type calcium channels inhibited the stimulatory effects of the nanomagnetic forces, suggesting the role of mechano-sensitive ion channels in mediating calcium influx.

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