From nanoparticles to optogenetics: AGH University researcher on a path towards precise neural control

Over the past four years, Dr Jimenez has been conducting research focused on the development and optimisation of nanoparticles, systematically investigating their composition, morphology, surface properties, and optical response, with the long-term goal of creating efficient light nanotransducers that can activate opsins. Working on luminescent materials, she proposed the use of lanthanide-based nanoparticles as light nanotransducers to mediate optogenetics, marking the first step towards integrating advanced nanomaterials science with neural modulation technologies.

In February 2025, Dr G. L. Jimenez participated in an optogenetics workshop offered by the Stanford Bio-X Optogenetics Innovation Lab under the guidance of Professor Karl Deisseroth, recipient of the 2026 Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine for his discoveries related to light-gated ion channels and for pioneering the development of optogenetics. During hands-on training, she gained unique experience in key optogenetic techniques, including surgical procedures for opsin delivery and optical-fibre implantation, as well as behavioural experiments. 

During her visit to Stanford University, the researcher presented the achievements of the AGH University photonics group led by Professor Dominik Dorosz to Professor Deisseroth and discussed potential future research directions. Professor Deisseroth’s recommendations on specific opsins developed within his research programme have been incorporated into the design of the planned experiments at AGH University.

Dr Jimenez’s research has recently been awarded funding under the National Science Centre (NCN) SONATINA 21 call for the project “Glass@Nanocrystal Hybrid Core–Shell Platform for Simultaneous Imaging and Thermometry” (2026–2029). The project focuses on the development of lanthanide-based nanoparticles using a microwave-assisted technique, providing improved control over and reproducibility of the synthesis process. The resulting platform will provide an important foundation for the future development of reproducible light nanotransducers for optogenetic applications. AGH University serves as the consortium leader for the project, which is carried out in cooperation with the Białystok University of Technology.

The long-term goal of Dr Jimenez is to establish an interdisciplinary research line that combines photonic nanomaterials and optogenetics to enable precise, remote, and minimally invasive neural modulation. Potential applications of this technology include novel methods for the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders.