Engineered 3D-printed artificial axons.

ABSTRACT: Myelination is critical for transduction of neuronal signals, neuron survival and normal function of the nervous system. Myelin disorders account for many debilitating neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis and leukodystrophies. The lack of experimental models and tools to observe and manipulate this process in vitro has constrained progress in understanding and promoting myelination, and ultimately developing effective remyelination therapies. To address this problem, we developed synthetic mimics of neuronal axons, representing key geometric, mechanical, and surface chemistry components of biological axons. These artificial axons exhibit low mechanical stiffness approaching that of a human axon, over unsupported spans that facilitate engagement and wrapping by glial cells, to e

SUBMITTER: Espinosa-Hoyos D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5765144 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature