LMI Seminar: Remote stimulation to control cell signaling

Abstract:

Cell signaling can be remotely modulated through localized thermal stimulation using magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) that efficiently dissipate heat under alternating magnetic fields (AMFs). Our lab develops implantable, biocompatible nanocomposites engineered with tunable magnetic and mechanical properties tailored to specific tissue environments, enabling remote AMF-mediated activation of deep organs in the body. This approach targets, for example, heat-sensitive ion channels, including transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), which is activated above a threshold temperature of approximately 42 °C. Upon AMF exposure, the magnetic nanocomposites generate localized heating, enabling wireless, on-demand modulation of calcium signaling pathways. By integrating magnetic biomaterials with bioelectronic interfaces, we aim to establish new therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders, tissue regeneration, and controlled drug delivery.