Integrated magnetic probes for neuronal current imaging

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Jens Anders; Professor Dr. Pascal Fries
• Subject Area: Microsystems ; Electronic Semiconductors, Components and Circuits, Integrated Systems, Sensor Technology, Theoretical Electrical Engineering ; Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
• Term: from 2017 to 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 391912302

Low-frequency magnetic fields pass through biological tissues without significant distortion, thus enabling efficient, remote interaction with devices inside a biological system. Previously, we have realized the first experimental proof of concept of locally recording the activity of neuronal networks in vivo with a new type of tool based on spin electronics. To realize single-event recordings at neuron scale, we need to improve the sensor sensitivity and to co-integrate the electronics with the sensor for an improved form factor and signal integrity. To achieve this, in the proposed project NeuroTMR, we will use our low-noise Tunnel Magneto Resistance sensors and incorporate all relevant electronics directly onto the probe. The resulting new tool will open the field of magnetophysiology to understand the mechanisms of neuronal information transmission by realizing a mapping of the ionic flows in the neuropil, including vectorial information and multi-neurons simultaneous recordings, paving the way for durable implants, possibly for brain-machine interface.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: France
• Cooperation Partner: Dr. Myriam Pannetier-Lecoeur