Disorders of the Central Nervous System (CNS) are among the major health challenges of this century. Therapeutic development, however, remains limited by poor understanding of the brain. In modern neuroscience there is growing interest in the development of nanotechnologies, as promising therapeutic tools. In particular Carbon-based materials, such as Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs), have been shown to modulate synapse formation and cell excitability, suggesting them as interesting candidates for the amelioration of CNS dysfunction. Here, we describe how pristine CNTs of different lengths impact primary neuronal networks through the use of electrophysiological and immunofluorescent techniques. Observing CNTs without any functionalization allows us to determine direct effects of the material itself, as well as differences induced by variations in size. The adaptability and excellent conductive properties of these nanotools, along with their ability to modulate neuronal activity, might open the way for modern therapeutic strategies targeting neurological conditions.

Carbon-Based Nanotools as Novel Therapeutic Strategies for Brain Dysfunction

A. Sartini
Methodology
;
D. Lattanzi
Methodology
;
S. Sartini
Conceptualization
;
R. Rauti
Funding Acquisition
2024

Abstract

Disorders of the Central Nervous System (CNS) are among the major health challenges of this century. Therapeutic development, however, remains limited by poor understanding of the brain. In modern neuroscience there is growing interest in the development of nanotechnologies, as promising therapeutic tools. In particular Carbon-based materials, such as Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs), have been shown to modulate synapse formation and cell excitability, suggesting them as interesting candidates for the amelioration of CNS dysfunction. Here, we describe how pristine CNTs of different lengths impact primary neuronal networks through the use of electrophysiological and immunofluorescent techniques. Observing CNTs without any functionalization allows us to determine direct effects of the material itself, as well as differences induced by variations in size. The adaptability and excellent conductive properties of these nanotools, along with their ability to modulate neuronal activity, might open the way for modern therapeutic strategies targeting neurological conditions.
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11576/2750751
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