Microfluidic neurite guidance to study structure-function relationships in topologically-complex population-based neural networks.

ABSTRACT: The central nervous system is a dense, layered, 3D interconnected network of populations of neurons, and thus recapitulating that complexity for in vitro CNS models requires methods that can create defined topologically-complex neuronal networks. Several three-dimensional patterning approaches have been developed but none have demonstrated the ability to control the connections between populations of neurons. Here we report a method using AC electrokinetic forces that can guide, accelerate, slow down and push up neurites in un-modified collagen scaffolds. We present a means to create in vitro neural networks of arbitrary complexity by using such forces to create 3D intersections of primary neuronal populations that are plated in a 2D plane. We report for the first time in vitro basic brain

SUBMITTER: Honegger T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4916598 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature