Bridging Neuroscience and Engineering with Nano-Neurotechnology

InfoMetricsFiguresRef. Accounts of Chemical ResearchVol 57/Issue 22Article This publication is free to access through this site. Learn More CiteCitationCitation and abstractCitation and referencesMore citation options ShareShare onFacebookX (Twitter)WeChatLinkedInRedditEmailJump toExpandCollapse EditorialNovember 19, 2024Bridging Neuroscience and Engineering with Nano-NeurotechnologyClick to copy article linkArticle link copied!David MarescaDavid MarescaDelft University of TechnologyMore by David MarescaArnd PralleArnd PralleUniversity at BuffaloMore by Arnd Prallehttps://orcid.org/0000-0002-6079-109XBozhi Tian*Bozhi TianUniversity of ChicagoMore by Bozhi Tianhttps://orcid.org/0000-0003-0593-0023Open PDFAccounts of Chemical ResearchCite this: Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 22, 3241–3242Click to copy citationCitation copied!https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00487https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00487Published November 19, 2024 Publication History Received 26 July 2024Published online 19 November 2024Published in issue 19 November 2024editorialCopyright © Published 2024 by American Chemical Society. This publication is available under these Terms of Use. Request reuse permissionsThis publication is licensed for personal use by The American Chemical Society. ACS PublicationsCopyright © Published 2024 by American Chemical SocietySubjectswhat are subjectsArticle subjects are automatically applied from the ACS Subject Taxonomy and describe the scientific concepts and themes of the article.BiocompatibilityCentral nervous systemElectrodesInterfacesNanomaterialsThe past decade has seen an increasing number of technological advances to interface with single neurons and neuronal circuits being applied in vivo. These methods have greatly accelerated our understanding of neural pathways in the brain in health and disease. Additionally, these neurotechnologies hold exciting promise for future neurotherapies.This issue of Accounts of Chemical Research discusses recent advancements of nanomaterials and chemical tools designed for probing and modulating neural activities, aiming to evaluate their impact on diverse aspects of neuroscience and neuroengineering. Key topics include the synthesis of novel nanomaterials with unique properties for neural interfaces, the development of new neural interrogation processes and mechanisms, and the application of these nanoenabled tools in neuroprosthetics, neurosensing, and neuromodulation. Furthermore, the integration of optical, magnetic, photoacoustic, and electrical systems for closed-loop neural monitoring and modulation is explored. Additionally, the challenges for therapeutic applications, such as biocompatibility and long-term stability, are discussed.Hurdles for long-term applications are that many approaches rely on embedding hard materials, such as electrodes or transducers, into the soft brain or require multiple connected components, such as a power supply, transducers, and sensors. The former is addressed by two papers in this collection documenting the progress in stretchable and flexible neural interfaces. Xiaodong Chen and his team (1) present significant advancements in stretchable microelectrode arrays (MEAs) for neuron–motor system interfacing. Their research focuses on balancing stretchability and electrical conductivity, providing innovative solutions to enhance the biocompatibility and functionality of MEAs in physiological research and clinical applications. Dae-Hyeong Kim, Gi Doo Cha, and their teams (2) emphasize the integration of nanotechnology with soft bioelectronics. Their work showcases advanced geometric designs and intrinsically stretchable materials that improve the mechanical compatibility and multifunctionality of bioelectronics, paving the way for enhanced neural recording and modulation applications and significantly contributing to the field of neuroengineering. The challenges and possible solutions for compact, completely integrated one-component neuronal interfaces which could open pathways for therapeutic devices are discussed by Philipp Gutruf. (3) These innovative neural interfaces overcome traditional challenges by integrating electronics directly onto thin films, reducing displacement volumes, and enhancing energy availability to create monolithic, wirelessly powered devices. The highlighted device architectures demonstrate the potential of near-field power delivery as a key technique for efficient power transfer, setting a new standard for neural interface technology.Significant progress has been made in enhancing the biocompatibility of neural interfaces. Xinyan Cui's team (4) focuses on improving neural probe performance using silica nanoparticles (SiNPs). Their research demonstrates how SiNP coatings can enhance the electrochemical properties and biocompatibility of neural interfaces, offering innovative solutions for chronic neural stimulation and drug delivery. Erin Purcell's team (5) examines the biological responses to implanted neural electrodes, employing innovative "device-in-slice" techniques to uncover significant structural, functional, and genetic changes in brain tissue surrounding electrodes. These insights are critical for improving the design and integration of neural interfaces, making substantial strides toward more effective and biocompatible neural implants.Future directions toward translational therapeutic applications likely require innovative neuromodulation techniques and closed-loop systems sensing activity and neuromodulating it.Tzahi Cohen-Karni's team (6) presents advancements in using nanostructured electrodes for neural interfaces, discussing hybrid nanomaterials for remote nongenetic optical stimulation, neurotransmitter detection, and electrochemical modulation. The emphasis on closed-loop neural interfacing suggests the potential for these multifunctional nanomaterials to revolutionize the field. Bozhi Tian's team (7) offers an overview of optoelectronic nanomaterials for neural interfacing, discussing the development of "photoelectroceuticals" that enable high-specificity neuromodulation through minimally invasive optoelectronic systems. The article emphasizes the importance of materials innovation and presents strategic directions for future research, aiming to advance the field of nanoenhanced optoelectronic neuromodulation.Novel, force-mediated neuromodulation mechanisms are discussed by Guosong Hong and his team. (8) They categorizing force-mediated techniques into those using focused ultrasound and those generating mechanical force from other modalities. This Account showcases the advantages and limitations of each approach, highlighting recent technological advancements and their potential for high-precision neural modulation. Chen Yang and colleagues (9) highlight the emerging field of photoacoustic neural stimulation, a versatile nongenetic method for high-precision neuromodulation. This technique offers high efficacy and precision without the need for genetic modification, covering the design principles of photoacoustic transducers and highlighting their potential for noninvasive, high-precision brain stimulation. Finally, Jacob Robinson and his team (10) provided a detailed discussion of the progress made in the field of magnetoelectrics for implantable bioelectronics. They reviewed the current advancements, challenges, and potential applications of magnetoelectric materials in bioelectronic devices.This special issue aims to pave the way for groundbreaking therapies, diagnostics, and technologies that revolutionize neuroscience and improve the lives of those affected by neurological disorders. By integrating advanced nanomaterials and chemical principles, it is set to open new frontiers in neural interfacing, enabling unprecedented precision in monitoring and modulating neural activity at the molecular level. The chemical innovations presented here are poised to lead in creating smarter, more responsive materials and devices that interact seamlessly with the brain's complex biochemical environment. These advancements could lead to personalized neurotherapeutic strategies, transforming treatments for conditions such as Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and spinal cord injuries. The integrated efforts in this issue enhance our understanding of chemical roles and interactions within neural systems, driving the creation of next-generation neurotechnologies that are minimally invasive, highly efficient, and chemically tailored to individual needs.Author InformationClick to copy section linkSection link copied!Corresponding AuthorBozhi Tian, University of Chicago, https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0593-0023, Email: AuthorsDavid Maresca, Delft University of TechnologyArnd Pralle, University at Buffalo, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6079-109XNotesViews expressed in this editorial are those of the authors and not necessarily the views of the ACS.ReferencesClick to copy section linkSection link copied! This article references 10 other publications. 1Jiang, Z.; Zhu, M.; Chen, X. D. Interfacing neuron-motor pathways with stretchable and biocompatible electrode arrays. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 2255– 2266, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00215 Google ScholarThere is no corresponding record for this reference.2Kim, M.; Lee, H. Y. J.; Nam, S.; Kim, D. H.; Cha, G. D. Soft Bioelectronics Using Nanomaterials and Nanostructures for Neuroengineering. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1633– 1647, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00163 Google ScholarThere is no corresponding record for this reference.3Gutruf, P. Monolithically Defined Wireless Fully Implantable Nervous System Interfaces. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1275– 1286, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00013 Google ScholarThere is no corresponding record for this reference.4Shi, D. L.; Narayanan, S.; Woeppel, K.; Cui, X. T. Improving the Biocompatibility and Functionality of Neural Interface Devices with Silica Nanoparticles. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1684– 1695, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00160 Google ScholarThere is no corresponding record for this reference.5Gupta, B.; Saxena, A.; Perillo, M. L.; Wade-Kleyn, L. C.; Thompson, C. H.; Purcell, E. K. Structural, Functional, and Genetic Changes Surrounding Electrodes Implanted in the Brain. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1346– 1359, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00057 Google ScholarThere is no corresponding record for this reference.6Ranke, D.; Lee, I.; Gershanok, S. A.; Jo, S.; Trotto, E.; Wang, Y. Q.; Balakrishnan, G.; Cohen-Karni, T. Multifunctional Nanomaterials for Advancing Neural Interfaces: Recording, Stimulation, and Beyond. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1803– 1814, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00138 Google ScholarThere is no corresponding record for this reference.7Yang, C. W.; Cheng, Z.; Li, P. J.; Tian, B. Z. Exploring Present and Future Directions in Nano-Enhanced Optoelectronic Neuromodulation. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1398– 1410, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00086 Google ScholarThere is no corresponding record for this reference.8Cooper, L.; Malinao, M. G.; Hong, G. S. Force-Based Neuromodulation. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1384– 1397, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00074 Google ScholarThere is no corresponding record for this reference.9Du, Z. Y.; Chen, G.; Li, Y. M.; Zheng, N.; Cheng, J.-X.; Yang, C. Photoacoustic: A Versatile Non-genetic Method for High Precision Neuromodulation. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1595– 1607, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00119 Google ScholarThere is no corresponding record for this reference.10Alrashdan, F.; Yang, K. Y.; Robinson, J. T. Magnetoelectrics for implantable bioelectronics: Progress to date. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00307 .Google ScholarThere is no corresponding record for this reference.Cited By Click to copy section linkSection link copied!This article has not yet been cited by other publications.Download PDFFiguresReferences Get e-AlertsGet e-AlertsAccounts of Chemical ResearchCite this: Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 22, 3241–3242Click to copy citationCitation copied!https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00487Published November 19, 2024 Publication History Received 26 July 2024Published online 19 November 2024Published in issue 19 November 2024Copyright © Published 2024 by American Chemical Society. This publication is available under these Terms of Use. Request reuse permissionsArticle Views-Altmetric-Citations-Learn about these metrics closeArticle Views are the COUNTER-compliant sum of full text article downloads since November 2008 (both PDF and HTML) across all institutions and individuals. These metrics are regularly updated to reflect usage leading up to the last few days.Citations are the number of other articles citing this article, calculated by Crossref and updated daily. Find more information about Crossref citation counts.The Altmetric Attention Score is a quantitative measure of the attention that a research article has received online. Clicking on the donut icon will load a page at altmetric.com with additional details about the score and the social media presence for the given article. Find more information on the Altmetric Attention Score and how the score is calculated.Recommended Articles FiguresReferencesThis publication has no figures.References This article references 10 other publications. 1Jiang, Z.; Zhu, M.; Chen, X. D. Interfacing neuron-motor pathways with stretchable and biocompatible electrode arrays. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 2255– 2266, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00215 There is no corresponding record for this reference.2Kim, M.; Lee, H. Y. J.; Nam, S.; Kim, D. H.; Cha, G. D. Soft Bioelectronics Using Nanomaterials and Nanostructures for Neuroengineering. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1633– 1647, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00163 There is no corresponding record for this reference.3Gutruf, P. Monolithically Defined Wireless Fully Implantable Nervous System Interfaces. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1275– 1286, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00013 There is no corresponding record for this reference.4Shi, D. L.; Narayanan, S.; Woeppel, K.; Cui, X. T. Improving the Biocompatibility and Functionality of Neural Interface Devices with Silica Nanoparticles. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1684– 1695, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00160 There is no corresponding record for this reference.5Gupta, B.; Saxena, A.; Perillo, M. L.; Wade-Kleyn, L. C.; Thompson, C. H.; Purcell, E. K. Structural, Functional, and Genetic Changes Surrounding Electrodes Implanted in the Brain. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1346– 1359, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00057 There is no corresponding record for this reference.6Ranke, D.; Lee, I.; Gershanok, S. A.; Jo, S.; Trotto, E.; Wang, Y. Q.; Balakrishnan, G.; Cohen-Karni, T. Multifunctional Nanomaterials for Advancing Neural Interfaces: Recording, Stimulation, and Beyond. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1803– 1814, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00138 There is no corresponding record for this reference.7Yang, C. W.; Cheng, Z.; Li, P. J.; Tian, B. Z. Exploring Present and Future Directions in Nano-Enhanced Optoelectronic Neuromodulation. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1398– 1410, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00086 There is no corresponding record for this reference.8Cooper, L.; Malinao, M. G.; Hong, G. S. Force-Based Neuromodulation. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1384– 1397, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00074 There is no corresponding record for this reference.9Du, Z. Y.; Chen, G.; Li, Y. M.; Zheng, N.; Cheng, J.-X.; Yang, C. Photoacoustic: A Versatile Non-genetic Method for High Precision Neuromodulation. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, 57, 1595– 1607, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00119 There is no corresponding record for this reference.10Alrashdan, F.; Yang, K. Y.; Robinson, J. T. Magnetoelectrics for implantable bioelectronics: Progress to date. Acc. Chem. Res. 2024, DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00307 .There is no corresponding record for this reference.