Positive Vibes: Scientists Control Mouse Brains With Magnets

D-brief
By Nathaniel Scharping
Mar 11, 2016 9:00 PMNov 19, 2019 9:20 PM
magnets.jpg

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

(Credit: Awe Inspiring Images/Shutterstock) A little magnetism unleashed a wave of positive vibes for mice in the lab. Scientists at the University of Virginia developed a technique that uses magnets to control the brains of living mice. Researchers created a hybrid gene — they called it Magneto — that produces proteins in brain cells that are responsive to magnets. Whenever Magneto-engineered rodents wandered into a magnetic field, the invisible force activated the pleasure centers in their brains. Researchers believe magnetic mind control represents a noninvasive way to manipulate neural pathways and study brain function. It’s also, they say, a first step toward developing “magneto-genetic” therapies to someday treat brain disorders.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2025 LabX Media Group