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Neurogenesis and neuronal communication on micropatterned neurochips
Author(s) -
BaniYaghoub Mahmud,
Tremblay Roger,
Voicu Raluca,
Mealing Geoff,
Monette Robert,
Py Christophe,
Faid Karim,
Sikorska Marianna
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
biotechnology and bioengineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.136
H-Index - 189
eISSN - 1097-0290
pISSN - 0006-3592
DOI - 10.1002/bit.20618
Subject(s) - neurogenesis , neuroscience , biology , microbiology and biotechnology
Neural networks are formed by accurate connectivity of neurons and glial cells in the brain. These networks employ a three‐dimensional bio‐surface that both assigns precise coordinates to cells during development and facilitates their connectivity and functionality throughout life. Using specific topographic and chemical features, we have taken steps towards the development of poly(dimethylsiloxane; PDMS) neurochips that can be used to generate and study synthetic neural networks. These neurochips have micropatterned structures that permit adequate cell positioning and support cell survival. Within days of plating, cells differentiate into neurons displaying excitability and communication, as evidenced by intracellular calcium oscillations and action potentials. The structural and functional capacities of such simple neural networks open up new opportunities to study synaptic communication and plasticity. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.