A metal–organic framework neuron

Abstract

The demand for deep human–machine fusion propels the development of artificial neurons. However, emulating the neuronal spiking in aqueous environments remains challenging. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have recently shown promise in neuromorphic engineering compatible with aqueous operation. Here, we report a MOF neuron with real neurotransmitter—dopamine (DA)—tunable spikes for the first time. Based on the DA mediation, some sophisticated neuronal functions, including integration-and-firing, synaptic facilitation-induced spike broadening and DA-tunable spiking number and width, were mimicked. DA-mediated spikes in this MOF neuron were further implemented to exquisitely control peripheral equipment. This work introduces the concept of a MOF neuron interfaced with a real neurotransmitter in fluids, providing a new perspective for artificial neuron development.