2011 Medical Research

The research team proposes to develop a novel method for direct, real-time imaging of neuronal voltage signals. Neuroscience has traditionally relied on electrodes to measure the activity of neurons, one at a time. It is, however, the interaction of many cells in neuronal circuits that generates behavior, and tools to monitor such ensemble activity, while still preserving single-cell resolution, are lacking. To tackle this technical challenge, the team will use color centers in diamond nanocrystals, together with techniques derived from atomic physics, to sense electric fields with unprecedented resolution. Diamond is well suited for use in biological preparations because it is chemically inert, cytocompatible and ideal for coupling to biological molecules. The team proposes to harness these properties in diamond nanoprobes to measure electrical signals from neurons in real-time, in neuronal cell cultures, in neuronal circuits in brain slices and in awake mice.