Magnetic nanomaterials for minimally invasive neuromodulation
Wolters A, Gregurec D, Hescham SA (2026)
Publication Type: Authored book
Publication year: 2026
Publisher: Elsevier
ISBN: 9780323997423
DOI: 10.1016/B978-0-323-99742-3.00016-3
Abstract
Advances in neural engineering have revolutionized our understanding of the relationship between neural activity, brain circuits, and behavior, leading to the development of innovative tools for neuromodulation. Genetic (e.g., optogenetics and chemogenetics) and external stimulation techniques, such as deep brain stimulation have enabled activation and inhibition of neurons. They face invasiveness, off-target effects, and temporal resolution challenges. Existing noninvasive approaches, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation and focused ultrasound show clinical promise but are constrained by spatial precision and stimulation depth limitations in the brain. Magnetic nanomaterials present minimally invasive neuromodulation by interacting directly with the nervous system at cellular and molecular levels. When coupled to the external magnetic fields (MFs), these nanoscale materials can trigger neuronal activity mechanisms such as heat dissipation (magnetothermal approach), magnetic moment (magnetomechanical approach), or electric polarization changes (magnetoelectric approach), enabling targeted neuronal excitation or inhibition. Future research is warranted to optimize the coating of these nanomaterials and develop wearable devices to replace existing stationary and bulky electronics that drive MFs for minimally invasive neuromodulation.
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Netherlands (NL)How to cite
APA:
Wolters, A., Gregurec, D., & Hescham, S.A. (2026). Magnetic nanomaterials for minimally invasive neuromodulation. Elsevier.
MLA:
Wolters, Anouk, Danijela Gregurec, and Sarah Anna Hescham. Magnetic nanomaterials for minimally invasive neuromodulation. Elsevier, 2026.
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