Open AccessRemote and Selective Control of Astrocytes by Magnetomechanical Stimulation
Author(s) -
Yu Yichao,
Payne Christopher,
Mariephtali,
Korsak Alla,
Southern Paul,
GarcíaPrieto Ana,
Christie Isabel N.,
Baker Rebecca R.,
Fisher Elizabeth M. C.,
Wells Jack A.,
Kalber Tammy L.,
Pankhurst Quentin A.,
Gourine Alexander V.,
Lythgoe Mark F.
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
advanced science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 5.388
H-Index - 100
ISSN - 2198-3844
DOI - 10.1002/advs.202104194
Subject(s) - optogenetics , astrocyte , neuroscience , stimulation , nanotechnology , microbiology and biotechnology , materials science , biology , central nervous system
Astrocytes play crucial and diverse roles in brain health and disease. The ability to selectively control astrocytes provides a valuable tool for understanding their function and has the therapeutic potential to correct dysfunction. Existing technologies such as optogenetics and chemogenetics require the introduction of foreign proteins, which adds a layer of complication and hinders their clinical translation. A novel technique, magnetomechanical stimulation (MMS), that enables remote and selective control of astrocytes without genetic modification is described here. MMS exploits the mechanosensitivity of astrocytes and triggers mechanogated Ca 2+ and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) signaling by applying a magnetic field to antibody‐functionalized magnetic particles that are targeted to astrocytes. Using purpose‐built magnetic devices, the mechanosensory threshold of astrocytes is determined, a sub‐micrometer particle for effective MMS is identified, the in vivo fate of the particles is established, and cardiovascular responses are induced in rats after particles are delivered to specific brainstem astrocytes. By eliminating the need for device implantation and genetic modification, MMS is a method for controlling astroglial activity with an improved prospect for clinical application than existing technologies.