09/05/2025
Scientists have built the first “artificial neuron” made from a metal–organic framework (M*F) that can behave like real brain cells in water by responding to dopamine. Unlike traditional electronic devices, this M*F neuron can carry out brain-like tasks such as learning through synaptic plasticity, sending integrate-and-fire signals, and adjusting its activity based on dopamine levels.
To demonstrate its capabilities, the team utilized the neuron to control a robotic hand. The amount of dopamine present determined how fast and how strongly the hand moved. This breakthrough brings artificial neurons a significant step closer to functioning like biological ones, opening up exciting possibilities for brain-inspired computers, smart biosensors, and advanced prosthetic devices.
This study presents the first metal-organic framework neuron with real neurotransmitter dopamine tunable spikes for neuromorphic engineering.
