Sub-second multi-channel magnetic control of select neural circuits in behaving flies

Precisely timed activation of genetically targeted cells is a powerful tool for studying neural circuits and controlling cell-based therapies. Magnetic control of cell activity or “magnetogenetics” using magnetic nanoparticle heating of temperature-sensitive ion channels enables remote, non-invasive activation of neurons for deep-tissue applications and studies of freely behaving animals. However, the in vivo response time of thermal magnetogenetics is currently tens of seconds, which prevents the precise temporal modulation of neural activity similar to light-based optogenetics. Moreover, magnetogenetics has not provided a means to selectively activate multiple channels to drive behavior. Here we produce sub-second behavioral responses in Drosophila melanogaster by combining magnetic nanoparticles with a rate-sensitive thermoreceptor (TRPA1-A). Furthermore, by tuning the properties of magnetic nanoparticles to respond to different magnetic field strengths and frequencies, we can achieve sub-second, multichannel stimulation, analogous to multi-color optogenetic stimulation. These results bring magnetogenetics closer to the temporal resolution and multiplexed stimulation possible with optogenetics while maintaining the minimal invasiveness and deep-tissue stimulation only possible by magnetic control.