The advancement of brain science research heavily relies on technological innovations. New technologies that enable real-time monitoring and precise manipulation of neural activities are anticipated to ultimately unravel the function and structure of neural circuits at the whole-brain scale. Thanks to the unique properties of nanosensors, they hold great promise in both monitoring and modulating neural activities in unprecedented ways. By taking advantages of nanotechnology, we aim to develop innovative techniques for monitoring neural activities, modulating neural activities, and precise diagnosis and treatment of brain diseases, respectively. Deep collaborations between material scientists and neuroscientists are anticipated to make significant breakthroughs in NanoNeuro. Our research group aims to develop various nanosensors for the following brain applications: 

(1) Monitoring of neural activities 

Dynamic imaging of neuronal populations is a major approach and technical bottleneck in brain science research. In our previous work, we developed fluorescent nanoprobes sensitive to K⁺ concentration changes (Nat. Nanotechnol., 2020; Sci. Adv., 2020) and membrane potential changes (J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2020). In the future, we will develop various nanosensors that are sensitive to changes of neural activities.  

(2) Modulation of neural activities 

Although various techniques such as electrical stimulation, magnetic stimulation, optogenetics, and chemogenetics have been developed to modulate neural activities, new technologies that can noninvasively and precisely modulate neural activities are in urgent needs. We will develop various technologies based on energy nanoconverters for wireless brain stimulation. These energy nanoconverters can absorb external stimulations such as ultrasound or magnetic field, and generate other forms of energy. The generated energy in situ can be used to modulate neural activities. 

(3) Precision diagnosis and treatment of brain diseases 

Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, depression, brain tumors, and other brain disorders have become the critical social issues in China. Nanosensors can not only be used for brain function research but also have potential for precise diagnosis and treatment of brain diseases. We will explore new therapeutic strategies based on fluorescent/magnetic nanosensors. These nanosensors will allow us to detect brain disease biomarkers or treat brain diseases.