Quantum sensing is emerging as a powerful approach to extend measurement capabilities beyond current limits, particularly in biology and neuroscience, where high temporal resolution and sensitivity are essential.
This project investigates intracellular temperature as a key regulator of neuronal function, investigating the presence of localized thermal gradients generated within subcellular compartments during neuronal activity.
The proposed approach exploits negatively charged Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) centers in nanodiamonds and aims to develop a biocompatible, non-invasive platform for real-time, site-specific thermometry targeting e.g. mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum and plasma membrane. The project aims to achieve accurate nanodiamond localization in neurons and millikelvin temperature sensitivity under physiological conditions. To this end, nanodiamonds will be optimized through tailored material properties and surface functionalization, while a dedicated optical setup and quantum sensing protocol will be developed.
The platform will also integrate potentiometric and amperometric measurements using a custom diamond-based multi-electrode array, enabling multimodal monitoring of neuronal activity. This unique combination of quantum sensing and electrophysiology will provide unprecedented insight into brain function by simultaneously measuring multiple parameters.
In the long term, the technology could be extended to detect local magnetic and electric fields and to support early diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases.
Contributing scientific sectors
