The regulative role of neurite mechanical tension in network development.

ABSTRACT: A bewildering series of dynamical processes take part in the development of the nervous system. Neuron branching dynamics, the continuous formation and elimination of neural interconnections, are instrumental in constructing distinct neuronal networks, which are the functional building blocks of the nervous system. In this study, we investigate and validate the important regulative role of mechanical tension in determining the final morphology of neuronal networks. To single out the mechanical effect, we cultured relatively large invertebrate neurons on clean quartz surfaces. Applied to these surfaces were isolated anchoring sites consisting of carbon nanotube islands to which the cells and the neurites could mechanically attach. Inspection of branching dynamics and network wiring upon dev

SUBMITTER: Anava S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2717249 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature