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In a breakthrough that could revolutionise treatment for brain disorders, scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, have shown that a nanomaterial called graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) can stimulate brain cells naturally — without electrodes, lasers, or magnets.

The material interacts directly with neurons, generating tiny electric fields that trigger calcium channels to open, encouraging nerve growth and better communication between brain cells. It acts like a smart switch: turning “on” when neurons are at rest to promote activity, and switching “off” when they are active, preventing fatigue.

Unlike deep brain stimulation (DBS) or magnetic treatments, which require invasive procedures or external devices, g-C₃N₄ works by responding to the brain’s own voltage signals. Experiments showed that it helped neurons mature and form stronger networks, boosted dopamine production in lab-grown brain-like cells, and even reduced toxic proteins linked to Parkinson’s disease in animal models.

“This is the first demonstration of semiconducting nanomaterials directly modulating neurons without external stimulation,” said Dr Manish Singh, who led the study published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces. “It opens new therapeutic avenues for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.”

Beyond medicine, the research could advance “brainware computing,” where living brain tissues are used as processors. Coupled with semiconducting materials like g-C₃N₄, these biological systems could one day power next-generation bio-inspired computers.

Further preclinical and clinical trials are planned to move this promising, non-invasive technology closer to human use.

Published on October 6, 2025