Optical magnetic detection of single-neuron action potentials using quantum defects in diamond
Abstract
We demonstrate noninvasive detection of action potentials with single-neuron sensitivity, including in whole organisms. Our sensor is composed of quantum defects within a diamond chip, which detect time-varying magnetic fields generated by action potentials. The sensor is biocompatible and can be brought into close proximity to the organism without adverse effect, allowing for long-term observation and superior resolution of neuron magnetic fields. Optical magnetic detection with quantum defects also provides information about action potential propagation that is not easily available with existing methods. The quantum diamond technique requires no labeling or genetic modification, allows submillisecond time resolution, does not bleach, and senses through opaque tissue. With further development, we expect micrometer-scale magnetic imaging of a variety of neuronal phenomena.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Nov 22, 2016
- Source ID
- 10.1073/pnas.1601513113
Entities
People
- David R. Glenn
- Hongkun Park
- Jennifer M. Schloss
- John F. Barry
- Matthew J. Turner
- Mikhail Lukin
- Ronald L. Walsworth
- Yuyu Song
Organizations
- Army Research Office
- Broad Institute
- Division of Physics
- Harvard University
- Harvard–Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics
- Marine Biological Laboratory
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- National Science Foundation
- Yale School of Medicine