Advances in Nano Neuroscience: From Nanomaterials to Nanotools

Abstract

During the last decades, neuroscientists have increasingly exploited a variety of artificial, de-novo synthesized materials with controlled nano-sized features. For instance, a renewed interest in the development of prostheses or neural interfaces was driven by the availability of novel nanomaterials that enabled the fabrication of implantable bioelectronics interfaces with reduced side effects and increased integration with the target biological tissue. The peculiar physical-chemical properties of nanomaterials have also contributed to the engineering of novel imaging devices toward sophisticated experimental settings, to smart fabricated scaffolds and microelectrodes, or other tools ultimately aimed at a better understanding of neural tissue functions. In this review, we focus on nanomaterials and specifically on carbon-based nanomaterials, such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene. While these materials raise potential safety concerns, they represent a tremendous technological opportunity for the restoration of neuronal functions. We then describe nanotools such as nanowires and nano-modified MEA for high-performance electrophysiological recording and stimulation of neuronal electrical activity. We finally focus on the fabrication of three-dimensional synthetic nanostructures, used as substrates to interface biological cells and tissues in vitro and in vivo.

Polyetheretherketone and Its Composites for Bone Replacement and Regeneration

“…In recent years, advances in nanotechnology have greatly contributed to the creation of novel nanomaterials with functional properties for biomedical applications [48,49]. Nanomaterials with small size and large surface area exhibit superior chemical, mechanical and physical properties compared to their micron-sized system [50][51][52][53].…”

Electroconductive Nanobiomaterials for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

“…Nanoneedles of 200-300 nm in diameter can reach the depth of the cell nucleus and make subcellular surgery in vivo possible. 76 Figure 3A shows the usability of nanoneedles and nanowires.…”

“…This experiment opened a new chapter in the design of new electrode model systems with better and closer contact between electrodes and neurons. 76 Three-dimensional scaffolds. Biomimetic scaffolds are under intense experiments to become one of the possible treatments for neurodegenerative diseases and axonal injuries.…”

Glial Interfaces: Advanced Materials and Devices to Uncover the Role of Astroglial Cells in Brain Function and Dysfunction

“…Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and their derivatives are promising biomaterials for use as scaffolds to drive nerve regeneration in neuroregenerative medicine, given their ability to modulate neurite extension and improve the conduction capability of neurons. [116] The work performed by Parpura's group [117,118] showed that chemically functionalized single-walled CNTs (SWCNTs) used as colloidal solutes or coating films of glass coverslips can alter the morphological and functional phenotype of primary rat astrocytes. In particular, unlike pristine CNTs, astrocytes on functionalized SWCNTs or multiwalled CNTs (MWCNTs) display better adhesion and distinctly-shaped morphology, which varies depending on the chemical modification and composition.…”