Imaging neural activity at the cellular- and network-levels by optically detected diamond spin-magnetometers and nanoparticle FRET sensors (R-3504)

The recent development of contact-less tools for real-time monitoring of cell physiology working with molecular resolutions in-vivo starts opening fascinating word that access fundamental knowledge on molecular- and cellular-scale biophysics, particularly in excitable cells as neurons. Optical probing of electromagnetic activity in single neurons and networks would then represent a breakthrough for non-invasive characterization of neuronal emergent collective properties. Nanoscale mapping of neuronal signals, eventually on subthreshold levels would bridge the gap between cellular and system-level phenomena, such as rhythms generation, adaptation, plasticity, and information processing, while contributing to dissect brain 'connectomics' - i.e., the brains wiring diagram. 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:nanoparticles and -clusters

Disciplines:Chemical sciences, Biological sciences, Materials engineering, Basic sciences, Clinical sciences, Translational sciences

Project type:Collaboration project