Researchers at University of California San Diego Sanford Stem Cell Institute have developed GraMOS (Graphene-Mediated Optical Stimulation), a technology that uses graphene’s optoelectronic properties to stimulate brain organoids with light. Published in Nature Communications, the study demonstrates how this approach can accelerate neural network formation and enhance organoid functionality.
GraMOS works by using graphene’s unique optoelectronic properties to convert light into gentle electrical cues that encourage neurons to connect and communicate. Credit: Wirla Pontes
The findings show that graphene stimulation helped organoids develop stronger synaptic connections and more organized neural networks, including in models derived from Alzheimer’s patient cells. Importantly, the graphene interface proved biocompatible over extended periods without harming neural tissue or organoid structure.
This advancement could benefit neurodegenerative disease research by enabling earlier study of pathological processes in patient-derived models, potentially shortening drug development timelines. The enhanced organoids revealed functional differences in network connectivity when modeling early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.
In an intriguing proof-of-concept experiment, the team successfully interfaced graphene-stimulated organoids with a simple robotic system, creating a closed feedback loop where neural responses could guide robotic behavior within 50 milliseconds. While preliminary, this demonstrates potential applications in neuroprosthetics and brain-computer interfaces.
The researchers suggest their approach may also have broader applications in tissue engineering, offering a non-invasive method for stimulating various lab-grown tissues. However, significant development remains before such neuro-biohybrid systems could reach practical applications.
Research article:
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