Terahertz Modulation on Biomolecules

Neuromodulation plays an important role in brain mechanism research and the treatment of brain functional disease. Current research methods include electrical stimulation using electric current, magnetic stimulation which effecting the entire brain, optogenetics powered by genetic engineering, ultrasonic stimulation using mechanical waves, and near-infrared stimulation through thermal effects. Here we introduce a new neural stimulation method called terahertz (THz) stimulation. Numerous biomolecules display distinctive fingerprint spectra in the THz range, attributed to intramolecular covalent bond vibrations, rotations, as well as intermolecular interactions such as hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces. This unique characteristic allows specific THz frequency bands to engage in label-free, targeted resonant interactions with biomolecules, ultimately influencing and regulating the life activities of biological entities. Compared with traditional methods, THz stimulation has the characteristic of non-thermal effects, is non-contact, has high spatiotemporal resolution, and is minimally invasive. While the single terahertz photon energy is very low, allowing for easy control of ionizing damage to tissues, thus establishing the better means to regulate the fragile nervous system. In this paper, we discuss the possible underlying mechanisms of THz effects and their impact on cognitive improvement based on published studies.