Nanomaterial stimulates 
brain cells without surgery

By Janmesh

Indian scientists have discovered that a special nanomaterial called graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) can stimulate brain cells. Currently it is done by surgically inserting electrodes, lasers, or magnets in the brain. 

Graphitic carbon nitride helps neurons grow, mature, and communicate more effectively by tapping into the brain’s own electrical activity. Remarkably, the material also boosted dopamine production in lab-grown brain-like cells. Dopamine improves motivation, mood and attention. This nanomaterial also reduced toxic proteins linked to Parkinson’s disease. All this was shown in animal models. 

Normally, treatments such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) require surgical implants, while other methods use magnetic or ultrasound waves to reach brain tissue. 

Graphitic carbon nitride when placed near nerve cells, it generates tiny electric fields in response to the brain’s voltage signals. These fields open calcium channels on neurons, triggering growth and improving connections between cells.

First Demonstartion of Semicondicting Nanomaterial

“This is the first demonstration of semiconducting nanomaterials directly modulating neurons without external stimulation,” said Dr. Manish Singh, who led the study. “It opens new therapeutic avenues for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.”

The breakthrough could also impact futuristic technologies such as “brainware computing.” Scientists worldwide are experimenting with brain organoids—tiny lab-grown brain tissues—as biological processors. Coupling them with semiconducting nanomaterials like g-C₃N₄ could make these living computers more efficient, opening new frontiers in bio-inspired computing.

This research will open an avenue towards therapeutic application of semiconducting nanomaterials for tissue engineering purposes which can help in treating brain injuries or manage neurodegenerative diseases. 

 

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