Inspired by optogenetics, a technique that uses light to control genetically modified neurons, South Korean scientists have developed a similar technology that utilizes magnetic fields to manipulate and control brain neurons.
In a series of experiments, scientists successfully manipulated a specific area of the brain known as the lateral hypothalamus to control feeding, social interactions, and parental behavior in mice. This technology holds significant potential, especially in the treatment of major neurological disorders, as well as in the rapidly advancing field of transcranial magnetic stimulation.
When people are asked about which superpower they would choose if given the chance, mind control often emerges as a popular option. Now, scientists from the Institute for Basic Science (IBS) in Korea, in collaboration with Yonsei University, are using magnetic fields to control mice, bringing this concept closer to reality.
The breakthrough in this technology may one day help scientists gain deeper insights into human higher brain functions and address some of the most challenging mental health issues.
To create this almost science fiction-like technology, the research team developed a device called the Magnetogenetic Interface for NeuroDynamics (Nano-MIND), which is designed to manipulate specific brain regions associated with cognition, emotions, and motivation. This technique, known as magnetogenetics, operates on the basic principle of using nano-particle switches that can be activated or deactivated by non-invasive magnetic fields to control certain fundamental brain functions. The research findings were published on July 2 in the journal “Nature Nanotechnology.”
Jinwoo Cheon, the director of the IBS Center for NanoMedicine and a co-author of the study, stated at a press conference, “This is the world’s first technology that allows free manipulation of specific brain regions using magnetic fields. We anticipate that this technology will be widely used in research to delve deeper into brain function, develop advanced artificial neural networks, bidirectional brain-computer interface technology, and develop new approaches for treating neurological disorders.”
While the use of magnetic stimulation for therapy is not entirely new, attempting to precisely control specific mental activities is a groundbreaking endeavor. In order to achieve this innovation, scientists at IBS first targeted receptors in the lateral hypothalamus of the brain, an area closely linked to eating and reward behavior.
Researchers found that when mice were exposed to magnetic fields that activate excitatory neurons, their feeding behavior decreased by 50%, while activation of inhibitory neurons increased chewing behavior by 100%. Similar experiments on the lateral hypothalamus showed that the influence of the magnetic field made mice exhibit friendlier behavior towards unfamiliar conspecifics.
Finally, the team conducted experiments on the medial preoptic area of the brain, a region closely related to parental care behavior. The results showed that mice with Nano-MIND demonstrated more direct responses to pup vocalizations compared to mice not affected by the magnetic field.
The field of magnetogenetics has evolved from previous optogenetics experiments. In 2016, scientists at Stanford University implanted LED lights in the heads and hind legs of mice as part of optogenetics, a technique that activates genetically modified neurons responsive to light flashes. Meanwhile, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has shown potential in treating severe depressive symptoms in humans. Although medical devices like Nano-MIND are more complex, this technology may potentially offer similar therapeutic effects for a variety of human neurological disorders in the future.