Nano-MIND Technology

01.08.2024

Nano-MIND Technology

Why in the news?                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Researchers from the Korean Institute of Basic Science have developed a magnetogenetics technology named Nano Magnetogenetic Interface for NeuroDynamics (Nano-MIND) which has been demonstrated on mice.

About Nano-MIND Technology:

• Nano-MIND (Magnetogenetic Interface for NeuroDynamics) technology, opens up new possibilities for understanding and manipulating complex brain functions such as cognition, emotion, and motivation.
• It allows for wireless, remote, and precise modulation of specific deep brain neural circuits using magnetism.
• This innovative approach leverages magnetic fields and magnetized nanoparticles to selectively activate targeted brain circuits, offering a significant advancement over existing methods of brain manipulation.
• Activation of inhibitory neurons in this area resulted in a remarkable 100% increase in appetite and feeding behaviours in mice. Conversely, when excitatory neurons were activated, the mice showed a more than 50% reduction in appetite and feeding behaviours.
• Significance: It represents a significant step forward in neuroscience research and could have far-reaching implications for the development of Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) and the treatment of neurological disorders.

Highlights of the research

• The research team demonstrated the technology's capabilities by activating specific neurons in different brain regions of mice.
• One notable achievement was the activation of inhibitory GABA receptors in the medial preoptic area (MPOA), which is responsible for maternal behaviours.
• When these neurons were stimulated in non-maternal female mice, the animals exhibited significantly increased nurturing behaviours, mimicking those of maternal mice.
• The researchers also successfully regulated feeding behaviours by targeting motivation circuits in the lateral hypothalamus.

                                                            Source: India Today

Ques :- Consider the following statements regarding the Nano-MIND Technology:

Statement-I

It allows for wireless and precise modulation of specific deep brain neural circuits using magnetism.

Statement-II

 It is developed by the Indian Institute of Science (IISC) Bengaluru.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

A.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I.

B.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I.

C.Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect.

D.Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct.

Answer C