Giant infrared bulk photovoltaic effect in tellurene for broad-spectrum neuromodulation
2025
Giant Bulk Photovoltaic Effect for Broadband Neuromodulation
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Chai Xueping, Sun Zhipei
Hypothesis
Can tellurene nanomaterials be used for effective broadband infrared neuromodulation?
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that tellurene nanomaterials can trigger neuronal activity through light exposure without causing cytotoxicity.
Supporting Evidence
- The tellurene nanomaterials showed a high photocurrent density of ~70 A cm−2 under infrared light.
- The materials successfully triggered action potentials in neurons when exposed to light at various wavelengths.
- No signs of cytotoxicity or cell damage were observed after prolonged exposure to the nanomaterials.
Takeaway
Scientists found a way to use special materials to help control brain cells with light, which could be safer than using electricity.
Methodology
The researchers synthesized tellurene nanomaterials and tested their ability to trigger action potentials in neurons using light.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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