New technology uses magnetic fields to control brain regions

Scientists at South Korea's Institute for Basic Science (IBS) have successfully developed a cutting-edge magnetogenetics technology called Nano-MIND, which enables wireless and remote control of specific brain regions to modulate complex brain functions, such as emotions, social behaviors and motivation in animals.

The related study was published in the latest issue of Nature Nanotechnology.

Magnetic fields have long been used in medical imaging due to their safety and ability to penetrate biological tissue, but precisely controlling brain circuits with magnetic fields has been a significant challenge for scientists.

The Nano-MIND technology utilizes magnetic fields and magnetized nanoparticles to specifically stimulate targeted brain circuits. The breakthrough is in the precise placement of nano-magnetoreceptors within particular neuronal types and brain circuits, enabling their activation through rotating magnetic fields at exact time intervals. This approach enables precise spatial and temporal control over neural activity.

The Nano-MIND technology demonstrated its capability by selectively activating inhibitory GABA receptors in the medial preoptic area (MPOA), which is responsible for maternal behaviors. Activation of these neurons in non-maternal female mice significantly increased nurturing behaviors, such as bringing pups to their nest, similar to maternal mice.

The technology was used to regulate feeding behaviors by targeting motivation circuits in the lateral hypothalamus. Activation of inhibitory neurons within these areas resulted in a 100-percent increase in appetite and feeding behaviors in mice. Conversely, activating excitatory neurons led to a more than 50-percent reduction in appetite and feeding behaviors.

These results show that the Nano-MIND technology can selectively activate desired brain circuits to bidirectionally modulate higher brain functions, paving the way for advancements in neuroscience and potential therapeutic applications.