Work

Nanomaterial based photoacoustic interface for non-genetic neuromodulation

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Photoacoustic (PA) stimulation is an emerging technology aiming to modulate neuronal activity safely, precisely, and efficiently without genetic modification. Owing to their strong light absorption, easy to process in the composite, nanomaterials have been utilized as PA interfaces developed for high spatial and temporal resolution PA stimulation without thermal damage in vitro and in vivo . This topical review introduces the theory of PA generation and summarizes the nanomaterials used in PA neural modulation. We discuss how these PA interfaces are applied in in vitro and in vivo studies, and highlight their unique capabilities and potential clinical applications. We further review mechanistic studies that provide insights into how neurons respond to mechanical stimuli. Overall, nanomaterial-based PA neural interfaces have shown exciting potential in non-genetic modulation of the brain and retina, serving as a unique tool for neuroscience and opening new opportunities for treating neurological disorders.

Source: Nano Futures

DOI: 10.1088/2399-1984/ae44dc

Authors: Deming Li, Guo Chen, Yueming Li, Nan Zheng, Zhiyi Du, Chen Yang

Institution: Boston University

Language: English

Topic: Neuroscience and Neural Engineering

Subfield: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,895