Development of a magnetoelectric neural stimulator for in vitro experiments.

Magnetoelectric (ME) materials hold the potential for wireless and minimally invasive brain stimulation with high spatial precision. However, comprehensive integration of ME materials in neurophysiology experiments remains an open challenge. In this study, we present the development of a ME stimulator prototype for in vitro brain stimulation, specifically tested with BiFeO 3 -CoFe 2 O 4 (BFO-CFO) nanoparticles. Our approach entails the design and implementation of a ME stimulator, which seamlessly integrates with existing electrophysiology setups while supporting a wide range of frequencies. To optimize the stimulator's design and evaluate its performance, we conducted modeling and simulations, bench tests, and in vitro experiments using cortical slices. The proposed ME stimulator offers neuroscientists a reliable and versatile tool to advance their understanding of brain function and potentially enhance the treatment of neurological disorders.