Small-molecule axon-polarization studies enabled by a shear-free microfluidic gradient generator.

ABSTRACT: A deep understanding of the mechanisms behind neurite polarization and axon path-finding is important for interpreting how the human body guides neurite growth during development and response to injury. Further, it is of great clinical importance to identify diffusible chemical cues that promote neurite regeneration for nervous tissue repair. Despite the fast development of various types of concentration gradient generators, it has been challenging to fabricate neuron-friendly (i.e. shear-free and biocompatible for neuron growth and maturation) devices to create stable gradients, particularly for fast diffusing small molecules, which typically require high flow and shear rates. Here we present a finite element analysis for a polydimethylsiloxane/polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PDMS/PEG-DA)

SUBMITTER: Xu H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4528973 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature