Nano-biointerfaces for Detection and Control of Biological Information

Abstract

A novel nano-biointerface for the detection and control of neurons has been proposed as "an artificial synapse." This article introduces two approaches that I have been focusing on. The first approach is the observation of a single functioning receptor protein by using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The receptor protein was purified, reconstituted into a lipid bilayer and observed in a physiological solution. The tetrameric and dimer-of-dimer structure of the receptor protein and the electrical signals from the protein proved that the protein was successfully handled in the process, which was designed to integrate it in an artificial post-synapse. The second approach is a neuronal affinity examination based on a single neuron that is undertaken by combining a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a focused ion beam (FIB). Then, according to the information thus obtained, the neurons exhibited the potential to be guided by employing topographic features, namely nano-pillars, made of suitable materials. This approach enables neurons to grow close to the artificial post-synapse and to interact with the device. These approaches will improve the technologies needed to realize an artificial synapse, which will be a useful platform for neurons that will allow us to examine the mechanism of synaptic formation and that will be applied to pharmacology, drug discovery, and medical science.