Imaging neural activity at the cellular- and network-levels by optically detected diamond spin-magnetometers and nanoparticle FRET sensors.

The project develops novel cellular imaging technique derived from optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) and Foerster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET), manipulating single-photons and spins in nano-diamond (ND) particles. This original technique is proposed as a sound alternative to calcium- or voltage-sensitive fluorophores in front-edge neuroscience research. In our proposal we use ND particles that are engineered to contain Nitrogen-Vacancies (NV)-defect centers, used for quantum- optical and electrical imaging. Upon "transfection" of the neurons by functionalized NDs, this technique will enable us to investigate with optical signals and ultra-weak electromagnetic fields in single neurons and microcircuits, related to action- and synaptic potentials but currently fully unexplored. A novel "magnetic" description of neuronal excitability will then be addressed for the first time, based on extreme sensitivities to ultra-week magnetic fields when working with single spins.

Keywords:ELECTRONIC STRUCTURE, ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES, CONDENSED MATTER

Disciplines:Condensed matter physics and nanophysics, Inorganic chemistry, Organic chemistry, Theoretical and computational chemistry, Other chemical sciences

Project type:Collaboration project