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Bierman-Duquette RD, Safarians G, Huang J, Rajput B, Chen JY, Wang ZZ, Seidlits SK. Engineering Tissues of the Central Nervous System: Interfacing Conductive Biomaterials with Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2101577. [PMID: 34808031 PMCID: PMC8986557 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202101577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Conductive biomaterials provide an important control for engineering neural tissues, where electrical stimulation can potentially direct neural stem/progenitor cell (NS/PC) maturation into functional neuronal networks. It is anticipated that stem cell-based therapies to repair damaged central nervous system (CNS) tissues and ex vivo, "tissue chip" models of the CNS and its pathologies will each benefit from the development of biocompatible, biodegradable, and conductive biomaterials. Here, technological advances in conductive biomaterials are reviewed over the past two decades that may facilitate the development of engineered tissues with integrated physiological and electrical functionalities. First, one briefly introduces NS/PCs of the CNS. Then, the significance of incorporating microenvironmental cues, to which NS/PCs are naturally programmed to respond, into biomaterial scaffolds is discussed with a focus on electrical cues. Next, practical design considerations for conductive biomaterials are discussed followed by a review of studies evaluating how conductive biomaterials can be engineered to control NS/PC behavior by mimicking specific functionalities in the CNS microenvironment. Finally, steps researchers can take to move NS/PC-interfacing, conductive materials closer to clinical translation are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gevick Safarians
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, USA
| | - Joyce Huang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, USA
| | - Bushra Rajput
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, USA
| | - Jessica Y. Chen
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, USA
| | - Ze Zhong Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, USA
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2
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Zhang Q. The Research Advance of Cell Bridges in vitro. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:609317. [PMID: 33330439 PMCID: PMC7732536 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.609317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The microenvironment in which cells reside in vivo dictates their biological and mechanical functioning is associated with morphogenetic and regenerative processes and may find implications in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. The development of nano- and micro-fabricated technologies, three-dimensional (3D) printing technique, and biomimetic medical materials have enabled researchers to prepare novel advanced substrates mimicking the in vivo microenvironment. Most of the novel morphologies and behaviors of cells, including contact guidance and cell bridges which are observed in vivo but are not perceived in the traditional two-dimensional (2D) culture system, emerged on those novel substrates. Using cell bridges, cell can span over the surface of substrates to maintain mechanical stability and integrity of tissue, as observed in physiological processes, such as wound healing, regeneration and development. Compared to contact guidance, which has received increased attention and is investigated extensively, studies on cell bridges remain scarce. Therefore, in this mini-review, we have comprehensively summarized and classified different kinds of cell bridges formed on various substrates and highlighted possible biophysical mechanisms underlying cell bridge formation for their possible implication in the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Controllable Preparation and Functional Application of Fine Polymers, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, China
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3
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Ludl AA, Soriano J. Impact of Physical Obstacles on the Structural and Effective Connectivity of in silico Neuronal Circuits. Front Comput Neurosci 2020; 14:77. [PMID: 32982710 PMCID: PMC7488194 DOI: 10.3389/fncom.2020.00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Scaffolds and patterned substrates are among the most successful strategies to dictate the connectivity between neurons in culture. Here, we used numerical simulations to investigate the capacity of physical obstacles placed on a flat substrate to shape structural connectivity, and in turn collective dynamics and effective connectivity, in biologically-realistic neuronal networks. We considered μ-sized obstacles placed in mm-sized networks. Three main obstacle shapes were explored, namely crosses, circles and triangles of isosceles profile. They occupied either a small area fraction of the substrate or populated it entirely in a periodic manner. From the point of view of structure, all obstacles promoted short length-scale connections, shifted the in- and out-degree distributions toward lower values, and increased the modularity of the networks. The capacity of obstacles to shape distinct structural traits depended on their density and the ratio between axonal length and substrate diameter. For high densities, different features were triggered depending on obstacle shape, with crosses trapping axons in their vicinity and triangles funneling axons along the reverse direction of their tip. From the point of view of dynamics, obstacles reduced the capacity of networks to spontaneously activate, with triangles in turn strongly dictating the direction of activity propagation. Effective connectivity networks, inferred using transfer entropy, exhibited distinct modular traits, indicating that the presence of obstacles facilitated the formation of local effective microcircuits. Our study illustrates the potential of physical constraints to shape structural blueprints and remodel collective activity, and may guide investigations aimed at mimicking organizational traits of biological neuronal circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriaan-Alexander Ludl
- Computational Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Soriano
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), Barcelona, Spain
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4
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Cohen S, Sazan H, Kenigsberg A, Schori H, Piperno S, Shpaisman H, Shefi O. Large-scale acoustic-driven neuronal patterning and directed outgrowth. Sci Rep 2020; 10:4932. [PMID: 32188875 PMCID: PMC7080736 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60748-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Acoustic manipulation is an emerging non-invasive method enabling precise spatial control of cells in their native environment. Applying this method for organizing neurons is invaluable for neural tissue engineering applications. Here, we used surface and bulk standing acoustic waves for large-scale patterning of Dorsal Root Ganglia neurons and PC12 cells forming neuronal cluster networks, organized biomimetically. We showed that by changing parameters such as voltage intensity or cell concentration we were able to affect cluster properties. We examined the effects of acoustic arrangement on cells atop 3D hydrogels for up to 6 days and showed that assembled cells spontaneously grew branches in a directed manner towards adjacent clusters, infiltrating the matrix. These findings have great relevance for tissue engineering applications as well as for mimicking architectures and properties of native tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Cohen
- Faculty of Engineering, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Bar-Ilan Institute of Nanotechnologies and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Haim Sazan
- Bar-Ilan Institute of Nanotechnologies and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Department of Chemistry, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Avraham Kenigsberg
- Bar-Ilan Institute of Nanotechnologies and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Department of Chemistry, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Hadas Schori
- Faculty of Engineering, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Bar-Ilan Institute of Nanotechnologies and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Silvia Piperno
- Bar-Ilan Institute of Nanotechnologies and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Department of Chemistry, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel
| | - Hagay Shpaisman
- Bar-Ilan Institute of Nanotechnologies and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.
- Department of Chemistry, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel.
| | - Orit Shefi
- Faculty of Engineering, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.
- Bar-Ilan Institute of Nanotechnologies and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.
- Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel.
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5
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Cerebral organoids at the air-liquid interface generate diverse nerve tracts with functional output. Nat Neurosci 2019; 22:669-679. [PMID: 30886407 PMCID: PMC6436729 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-019-0350-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 324] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neural organoids have the potential to improve our understanding of human brain development and neurological disorders. However, it remains to be seen whether these tissues can model circuit formation with functional neuronal output. Here, we have adapted air-liquid interface culture to cerebral organoids leading to improved neuronal survival and axon outgrowth. The resulting thick axon tracts display various morphologies including long-range projection within and away from the organoid, growth cone turning, and decussation. Single-cell RNA-sequencing reveals various cortical neuronal identities, and retrograde tracing demonstrates tract morphologies that match proper molecular identities. These cultures exhibit active neuronal networks, and extracortical projecting tracts can innervate mouse spinal cord and evoke contractions of adjacent muscle in a manner dependent on intact organoid-derived innervating tracts. Overall, these results reveal a remarkable self-organization of corticofugal and callosal tracts with a functional output, providing new opportunities to examine relevant aspects of human CNS development and disease.
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6
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Joo S, Lim J, Nam Y. Design and Fabrication of Miniaturized Neuronal Circuits on Microelectrode Arrays Using Agarose Hydrogel Micro-molding Technique. BIOCHIP JOURNAL 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s13206-018-2308-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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7
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Sharmeen S, Rahman AFMM, Lubna MM, Salem KS, Islam R, Khan MA. Polyethylene glycol functionalized carbon nanotubes/gelatin-chitosan nanocomposite: An approach for significant drug release. Bioact Mater 2018; 3:236-244. [PMID: 29744462 PMCID: PMC5935779 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2018.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Revised: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
This research work blooms the new idea of developing a safe and controlled drug releasing matrix using multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). In aqueous solution, uniform and highly stable dispersion of MWCNTs was obtained after secondary functionalization with polyethylene glycol (PEG) which was studied by Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Solution casting method was used to prepare MWCNTs/gelatin-chitosan nanocomposite films and the effect of MWCNTs on physico-mechanical, thermal and water uptake properties of the nanocomposites were evaluated. Incorporation of MWCNTs into the porous gelatin-chitosan matrix showed interesting stiffness and dampness along with developed microfibrillar structures within the pore walls intended at being used in tissue engineering of bone or cartilage. A common antibiotic drug, ciprofloxacin was incorporated into nanocomposite matrix. The evaluation of the effect of MWCNTs on drug release rate by dissolution test and antimicrobial susceptibility test was performed. Sharp release of the drug was found at early stages (∼1 h), but the rate was reduced afterwards, showing a sustained release. It was observed that for all microorganisms, the antibacterial activities of drug loaded MWCNTs/gelatin-chitosan nanocomposites were higher than that of drug loaded gelatin-chitosan composite films containing no MWCNTs. Comparative statistical studies by ANOVA techniques also showed remarkable difference between the antibacterial activities, exhibited by MWCNTs-incorporated and non-incorporated composite films.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadia Sharmeen
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - A F M Mustafizur Rahman
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Mostakima M Lubna
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Kh Samaher Salem
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Rafiqul Islam
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Mubarak A Khan
- Institute of Radiation and Polymer Technology, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
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8
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Gautam V, Naureen S, Shahid N, Gao Q, Wang Y, Nisbet D, Jagadish C, Daria VR. Engineering Highly Interconnected Neuronal Networks on Nanowire Scaffolds. NANO LETTERS 2017; 17:3369-3375. [PMID: 28437614 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.6b05288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Identifying the specific role of physical guidance cues in the growth of neurons is crucial for understanding the fundamental biology of brain development and for designing scaffolds for tissue engineering. Here, we investigate the structural significance of nanoscale topographies as physical cues for neurite outgrowth and circuit formation by growing neurons on semiconductor nanowires. We monitored neurite growth using optical and scanning electron microscopy and evaluated the spontaneous neuronal network activity using functional calcium imaging. We show, for the first time, that an isotropic arrangement of indium phosphide (InP) nanowires can serve as physical cues for guiding neurite growth and aid in forming a network with neighboring neurons. Most importantly, we confirm that multiple neurons, with neurites guided by the topography of the InP nanowire scaffolds, exhibit synchronized calcium activity, implying intercellular communications via synaptic connections. Our study imparts new fundamental insights on the role of nanotopographical cues in the formation of functional neuronal circuits in the brain and will therefore advance the development of neuroprosthetic scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vini Gautam
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, ‡Department of Electronic Materials Engineering, Research School of Physics and Engineering, §Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of Engineering, ∥Australian National Fabrication Facility, Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University , Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Shagufta Naureen
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, ‡Department of Electronic Materials Engineering, Research School of Physics and Engineering, §Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of Engineering, ∥Australian National Fabrication Facility, Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University , Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Naeem Shahid
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, ‡Department of Electronic Materials Engineering, Research School of Physics and Engineering, §Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of Engineering, ∥Australian National Fabrication Facility, Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University , Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Qian Gao
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, ‡Department of Electronic Materials Engineering, Research School of Physics and Engineering, §Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of Engineering, ∥Australian National Fabrication Facility, Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University , Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Yi Wang
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, ‡Department of Electronic Materials Engineering, Research School of Physics and Engineering, §Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of Engineering, ∥Australian National Fabrication Facility, Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University , Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - David Nisbet
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, ‡Department of Electronic Materials Engineering, Research School of Physics and Engineering, §Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of Engineering, ∥Australian National Fabrication Facility, Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University , Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Chennupati Jagadish
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, ‡Department of Electronic Materials Engineering, Research School of Physics and Engineering, §Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of Engineering, ∥Australian National Fabrication Facility, Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University , Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Vincent R Daria
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, ‡Department of Electronic Materials Engineering, Research School of Physics and Engineering, §Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of Engineering, ∥Australian National Fabrication Facility, Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University , Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
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9
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Wang C, Oh S, Lee HA, Kang J, Jeong KJ, Kang SW, Hwang DY, Lee J. In vivo feasibility test using transparent carbon nanotube-coated polydimethylsiloxane sheet at brain tissue and sciatic nerve. J Biomed Mater Res A 2017; 105:1736-1745. [PMID: 28076883 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.36001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Revised: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Carbon nanotubes, with their unique and outstanding properties, such as strong mechanical strength and high electrical conductivity, have become very popular for the repair of tissues, particularly for those requiring electrical stimuli. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based elastomers have been used in a wide range of biomedical applications because of their optical transparency, physiological inertness, blood compatibility, non-toxicity, and gas permeability. In present study, most of artificial nerve guidance conduits (ANGCs) are not transparent. It is hard to confirm the position of two stumps of damaged nerve during nerve surgery and the conduits must be cut open again to observe regenerative nerves after surgery. Thus, a novel preparation method was utilized to produce a transparent sheet using PDMS and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) via printing transfer method. Characterization of the PDMS/MWNT (PM) sheets revealed their unique physicochemical properties, such as superior mechanical strength, a certain degree of electrical conductivity, and high transparency. Characterization of the in vitro and in vivo usability was evaluated. PM sheets showed high biocompatibility and adhesive ability. In vivo feasibility tests of rat brain tissue and sciatic nerve revealed the high transparency of PM sheets, suggesting that it can be used in the further development of ANGCs. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 1736-1745, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caifeng Wang
- Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangjin Oh
- Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Ah Lee
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Natural Resources and Life Science/Life and Industry Convergence Research Institute, Pusan National University, Miryang, 50463, Republic of Korea
| | - Jieun Kang
- Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Jae Jeong
- Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon Woo Kang
- Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Youn Hwang
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Natural Resources and Life Science/Life and Industry Convergence Research Institute, Pusan National University, Miryang, 50463, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaebeom Lee
- Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
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10
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Chen X, Fang J, Cheng Y, Zheng J, Zhang J, Chen T, Ruan BH. Biomolecular interaction analysis for carbon nanotubes and for biocompatibility prediction. Anal Biochem 2016; 505:1-7. [PMID: 27108187 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2016.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Revised: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The interactions between carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and biologics have been commonly studied by various microscopy and spectroscopy methods. We tried biomolecular interaction analysis to measure the kinetic interactions between proteins and CNTs. The analysis demonstrated that wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) and other proteins have high affinity toward carboxylated CNT (f-MWCNT) but essentially no binding to normal CNT (p-MWCNT). The binding of f-MWCNT-protein showed dose dependence, and the observed kinetic constants were in the range of 10(-9) to 10(-11) M with very small off-rates (10(-3) to 10(-7) s(-1)), indicating a relatively tight and stable f-MWCNT-protein complex formation. Interestingly in hemolysis assay, p-MWCNT showed good biocompatibility, f-MWCNT caused 30% hemolysis, but WGA-coated f-MWCNT did not show hemolysis. Furthermore, the f-MWCNT-WGA complex demonstrated enhanced cytotoxicity toward cancer cells, perhaps through the glycoproteins expressed on the cells' surface. Taken together, biomolecular interaction analysis is a precise method that might be useful in evaluating the binding affinity of biologics to CNTs and in predicting biological actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Chen
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China.
| | - Jinzhang Fang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Yun Cheng
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Jianhui Zheng
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Tao Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Benfang Helen Ruan
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China.
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11
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Oprych KM, Whitby RLD, Mikhalovsky SV, Tomlins P, Adu J. Repairing Peripheral Nerves: Is there a Role for Carbon Nanotubes? Adv Healthc Mater 2016; 5:1253-71. [PMID: 27027923 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201500864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Revised: 01/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury continues to be a major global health problem that can result in debilitating neurological deficits and neuropathic pain. Current state-of-the-art treatment involves reforming the damaged nerve pathway using a nerve autograft. Engineered nerve repair conduits can provide an alternative to the nerve autograft avoiding the inevitable tissue damage caused at the graft donor site. Commercially available nerve repair conduits are currently only considered suitable for repairing small nerve lesions; the design and performance of engineered conduits requires significant improvements to enable their use for repairing larger nerve defects. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are an emerging novel material for biomedical applications currently being developed for a range of therapeutic technologies including scaffolds for engineering and interfacing with neurological tissues. CNTs possess a unique set of physicochemical properties that could be useful within nerve repair conduits. This progress report aims to evaluate and consolidate the current literature pertinent to CNTs as a biomaterial for supporting peripheral nerve regeneration. The report is presented in the context of the state-of-the-art in nerve repair conduit design; outlining how CNTs may enhance the performance of next generation peripheral nerve repair conduits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen M. Oprych
- Department of Brain, Repair and Rehabilitation; Institute of Neurology; University College London; Queen Square London WC1N 3BG UK
| | | | - Sergey V. Mikhalovsky
- School of Engineering; Nazarbayev University; Astana 010000 Kazakhstan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences; University of Brighton; Brighton BN2 4GJ UK
| | | | - Jimi Adu
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Science; University of Brighton; Brighton BN2 4GJ UK
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12
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Shein-Idelson M, Cohen G, Ben-Jacob E, Hanein Y. Modularity Induced Gating and Delays in Neuronal Networks. PLoS Comput Biol 2016; 12:e1004883. [PMID: 27104350 PMCID: PMC4841573 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1004883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural networks, despite their highly interconnected nature, exhibit distinctly localized and gated activation. Modularity, a distinctive feature of neural networks, has been recently proposed as an important parameter determining the manner by which networks support activity propagation. Here we use an engineered biological model, consisting of engineered rat cortical neurons, to study the role of modular topology in gating the activity between cell populations. We show that pairs of connected modules support conditional propagation (transmitting stronger bursts with higher probability), long delays and propagation asymmetry. Moreover, large modular networks manifest diverse patterns of both local and global activation. Blocking inhibition decreased activity diversity and replaced it with highly consistent transmission patterns. By independently controlling modularity and disinhibition, experimentally and in a model, we pose that modular topology is an important parameter affecting activation localization and is instrumental for population-level gating by disinhibition. The capacity to transmit information between connected parts of a neuronal network is fundamental to its function. The organization of network connections (the topology of the network) is therefore expected to play an important role in determining network transmission. Since modular topology characterizes many brain circuits on multiple scales, investigating the role of modularity in activity gating is clearly desirable. By engineering such modular networks in vitro, we were able to perform such an investigation. Under these experimental conditions, we can independently control the degree of modularity, as well as inhibition in the network. We show that a combination of these two properties is highly beneficial from a communication perspective. Namely, it equips connected modules and large modular networks with the capacity to gate and temporally coordinate activity between the different parts of the network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Shein-Idelson
- School of Electrical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Tel Aviv University Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Gilad Cohen
- School of Electrical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Tel Aviv University Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Eshel Ben-Jacob
- Tel Aviv University Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv, Israel
- School of Physics and Astronomy, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yael Hanein
- School of Electrical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Tel Aviv University Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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13
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Zhang Y, He Q, Dong J, Jia Z, Hao F, Shan C. Effects of epigallocatechin-3-gallate on proliferation and differentiation of mouse cochlear neural stem cells: Involvement of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Eur J Pharm Sci 2016; 88:267-73. [PMID: 27012759 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2016.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2016] [Revised: 03/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Since the majority of hearing impaired patients suffer from the significant loss of sensory hair cells and associated neurons, stem cell-based approaches hold great promise by replacing the damaged tissues in the ears. For instance, stem cells from the spiral ganglion could be isolated and expanded to regenerate neural structures of the inner ear. It is thus necessary to explore the potential procedures that may promote the proliferation and differentiation of such cochlear neural stem cells. In the present study, we study the effects of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a known antioxidant, for potential therapeutic use in NSC regeneration. At a non-toxic concentration, EGCG stimulated both proliferation and neurosphere formation in isolated mouse cochlear neural stem cell (NSC) in vitro. Specifically, the neural differentiation of NSC was promoted by EGCG treatment. The up-regulated neural function by EGCG was also supported by the increased calcium spike frequencies and enhanced neurite complexity in NSC-differentiated neurons. Finally, the induced neuron differentiation and Akt activation of cochlear NSC by EGCG were blocked by PI3 kinase inhibition. These data suggested that EGCG acts through phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling in cochlea NSC to promote cell growth and neuron differentiation, which may be exploited for the treatment of hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yubo Zhang
- E.N.T. Department 1, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 50000, China
| | - Qiang He
- E.N.T. Department 1, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 50000, China
| | - Jinhui Dong
- E.N.T. Department 1, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 50000, China
| | - Zhanwei Jia
- E.N.T. Department 1, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 50000, China
| | - Fang Hao
- E.N.T. Department 1, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 50000, China
| | - Chunguang Shan
- E.N.T. Department 1, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 50000, China.
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14
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Chen C, Kong X, Lee IS. Modification of surface/neuron interfaces for neural cell-type specific responses: a review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 11:014108. [PMID: 26694886 DOI: 10.1088/1748-6041/11/1/014108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Surface/neuron interfaces have played an important role in neural repair including neural prostheses and tissue engineered scaffolds. This comprehensive literature review covers recent studies on the modification of surface/neuron interfaces. These interfaces are identified in cases both where the surfaces of substrates or scaffolds were in direct contact with cells and where the surfaces were modified to facilitate cell adhesion and controlling cell-type specific responses. Different sources of cells for neural repair are described, such as pheochromocytoma neuronal-like cell, neural stem cell (NSC), embryonic stem cell (ESC), mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPS). Commonly modified methods are discussed including patterned surfaces at micro- or nano-scale, surface modification with conducting coatings, and functionalized surfaces with immobilized bioactive molecules. These approaches to control cell-type specific responses have enormous potential implications in neural repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cen Chen
- Bio-X Center, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, People's Republic of China
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15
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Teller S, Tahirbegi IB, Mir M, Samitier J, Soriano J. Magnetite-Amyloid-β deteriorates activity and functional organization in an in vitro model for Alzheimer's disease. Sci Rep 2015; 5:17261. [PMID: 26608215 PMCID: PMC4660300 DOI: 10.1038/srep17261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The understanding of the key mechanisms behind human brain deterioration in Alzheimer' disease (AD) is a highly active field of research. The most widespread hypothesis considers a cascade of events initiated by amyloid-β peptide fibrils that ultimately lead to the formation of the lethal amyloid plaques. Recent studies have shown that other agents, in particular magnetite, can also play a pivotal role. To shed light on the action of magnetite and amyloid-β in the deterioration of neuronal circuits, we investigated their capacity to alter spontaneous activity patterns in cultured neuronal networks. Using a versatile experimental platform that allows the parallel monitoring of several cultures, the activity in controls was compared with the one in cultures dosed with magnetite, amyloid-β and magnetite-amyloid-β complex. A prominent degradation in spontaneous activity was observed solely when amyloid-β and magnetite acted together. Our work suggests that magnetite nanoparticles have a more prominent role in AD than previously thought, and may bring new insights in the understanding of the damaging action of magnetite-amyloid-β complex. Our experimental system also offers new interesting perspectives to explore key biochemical players in neurological disorders through a controlled, model system manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Teller
- Departament d’Estructura i Constituents de la Matèria, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, E-08028, Spain
| | - Islam Bogachan Tahirbegi
- Nanobioengineering Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona, E-08028, Spain
- Departament d’Electrònica, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, E-08028, Spain
| | - Mònica Mir
- Nanobioengineering Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona, E-08028, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Barcelona, E-08028, Spain
| | - Josep Samitier
- Nanobioengineering Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona, E-08028, Spain
- Departament d’Electrònica, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, E-08028, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Barcelona, E-08028, Spain
| | - Jordi Soriano
- Departament d’Estructura i Constituents de la Matèria, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, E-08028, Spain
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16
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Gao J, Zhang X, Yu M, Ren G, Yang Z. Cognitive deficits induced by multi-walled carbon nanotubes via the autophagic pathway. Toxicology 2015; 337:21-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2015.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Revised: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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17
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Kanner S, Bisio M, Cohen G, Goldin M, Tedesco M, Hanein Y, Ben-Jacob E, Barzilai A, Chiappalone M, Bonifazi P. Design, Surface Treatment, Cellular Plating, and Culturing of Modular Neuronal Networks Composed of Functionally Inter-connected Circuits. J Vis Exp 2015. [PMID: 25938894 DOI: 10.3791/52572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The brain operates through the coordinated activation and the dynamic communication of neuronal assemblies. A major open question is how a vast repertoire of dynamical motifs, which underlie most diverse brain functions, can emerge out of a fixed topological and modular organization of brain circuits. Compared to in vivo studies of neuronal circuits which present intrinsic experimental difficulties, in vitro preparations offer a much larger possibility to manipulate and probe the structural, dynamical and chemical properties of experimental neuronal systems. This work describes an in vitro experimental methodology which allows growing of modular networks composed by spatially distinct, functionally interconnected neuronal assemblies. The protocol allows controlling the two-dimensional (2D) architecture of the neuronal network at different levels of topological complexity. A desired network patterning can be achieved both on regular cover slips and substrate embedded micro electrode arrays. Micromachined structures are embossed on a silicon wafer and used to create biocompatible polymeric stencils, which incorporate the negative features of the desired network architecture. The stencils are placed on the culturing substrates during the surface coating procedure with a molecular layer for promoting cellular adhesion. After removal of the stencils, neurons are plated and they spontaneously redirected to the coated areas. By decreasing the inter-compartment distance, it is possible to obtain either isolated or interconnected neuronal circuits. To promote cell survival, cells are co-cultured with a supporting neuronal network which is located at the periphery of the culture dish. Electrophysiological and optical recordings of the activity of modular networks obtained respectively by using substrate embedded micro electrode arrays and calcium imaging are presented. While each module shows spontaneous global synchronizations, the occurrence of inter-module synchronization is regulated by the density of connection among the circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivan Kanner
- Department of Neurobiology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University
| | - Marta Bisio
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia
| | - Gilad Cohen
- School of Electrical Engineering, Tel-Aviv University
| | - Miri Goldin
- School of Physics and Astronomy, Tel-Aviv University
| | - Marieteresa Tedesco
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and System Engineering, University of Genova
| | - Yael Hanein
- School of Electrical Engineering, Tel-Aviv University
| | | | - Ari Barzilai
- Department of Neurobiology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University
| | - Michela Chiappalone
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia
| | - Paolo Bonifazi
- Department of Neurobiology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University; School of Physics and Astronomy, Tel-Aviv University;
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18
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Zhang Q, Li Y, Sun H, Zeng L, Li X, Yuan B, Ning C, Dong H, Chen X. hMSCs bridging across micro-patterned grooves. RSC Adv 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c5ra06414g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
hMSCs spanned across a groove with 100 μm width.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- P.R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
- P.R. China
| | - Yuli Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- P.R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
- P.R. China
| | - Hao Sun
- Bruker Nano Surfaces Division
- Bruker (Beijing) Scientific Technology Co. Ltd
- Beijing 100081
- P.R. China
| | - Lei Zeng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- P.R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
- P.R. China
| | - Xian Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- P.R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
- P.R. China
| | - Bo Yuan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- P.R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
- P.R. China
| | - Chengyun Ning
- Department of Biomedical Engineering
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- P.R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
- P.R. China
| | - Hua Dong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- P.R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
- P.R. China
| | - Xiaofeng Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- P.R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction
- P.R. China
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19
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Emergence of assortative mixing between clusters of cultured neurons. PLoS Comput Biol 2014; 10:e1003796. [PMID: 25188377 PMCID: PMC4154651 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1003796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The analysis of the activity of neuronal cultures is considered to be a good proxy of the functional connectivity of in vivo neuronal tissues. Thus, the functional complex network inferred from activity patterns is a promising way to unravel the interplay between structure and functionality of neuronal systems. Here, we monitor the spontaneous self-sustained dynamics in neuronal cultures formed by interconnected aggregates of neurons (clusters). Dynamics is characterized by the fast activation of groups of clusters in sequences termed bursts. The analysis of the time delays between clusters' activations within the bursts allows the reconstruction of the directed functional connectivity of the network. We propose a method to statistically infer this connectivity and analyze the resulting properties of the associated complex networks. Surprisingly enough, in contrast to what has been reported for many biological networks, the clustered neuronal cultures present assortative mixing connectivity values, meaning that there is a preference for clusters to link to other clusters that share similar functional connectivity, as well as a rich-club core, which shapes a 'connectivity backbone' in the network. These results point out that the grouping of neurons and the assortative connectivity between clusters are intrinsic survival mechanisms of the culture.
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20
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Liu X, Zhang Y, Li J, Wang D, Wu Y, Li Y, Lu Z, Yu SCT, Li R, Yang X. Cognitive deficits and decreased locomotor activity induced by single-walled carbon nanotubes and neuroprotective effects of ascorbic acid. Int J Nanomedicine 2014; 9:823-39. [PMID: 24596461 PMCID: PMC3930484 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s56339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have shown increasing promise in the field of biomedicine, especially in applications related to the nervous system. However, there are limited studies available on the neurotoxicity of SWCNTs used in vivo. In this study, neurobehavioral changes caused by SWCNTs in mice and oxidative stress were investigated. The results of ethological analysis (Morris water maze and open-field test), brain histopathological examination, and assessments of oxidative stress (reactive oxygen species [ROS], malondialdehyde [MDA], and glutathione [GSH]), inflammation (nuclear factor κB, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-1β), and apoptosis (cysteine-aspartic acid protease 3) in brains showed that 6.25 and 12.50 mg/kg/day SWCNTs in mice could induce cognitive deficits and decreased locomotor activity, brain histopathological alterations, and increased levels of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in mouse brains; however, 3.125 mg/kg/day SWCNTs had zero or minor adverse effects in mice, and these effects were blocked by concurrent administration of ascorbic acid. Down-regulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis were proposed to explain the neuroprotective effects of ascorbic acid. This work suggests SWCNTs could induce cognitive deficits and decreased locomotor activity, and provides a strategy to avoid the adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Liu
- Laboratory of Environmental Biomedicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, College of Life Science, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuchao Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Biomedicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, College of Life Science, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinquan Li
- Laboratory of Environmental Biomedicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, College of Life Science, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong Wang
- Laboratory of Environmental Biomedicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, College of Life Science, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Wu
- Laboratory of Environmental Biomedicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, College of Life Science, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Li
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Department, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Zhisong Lu
- Institute for Clean Energy and Advanced Materials, Southwest University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Samuel C T Yu
- Division of Environment, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Rui Li
- Laboratory of Environmental Biomedicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, College of Life Science, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Yang
- Laboratory of Environmental Biomedicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, College of Life Science, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
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21
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Zhao W, Yu W, Zheng J, Wang Y, Zhang Z, Zhang D. Effects of carbon nanotubes in a chitosan/collagen-based composite on mouse fibroblast cell proliferation. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2013; 34:43-50. [PMID: 24052168 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-013-9985-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2013] [Accepted: 09/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the in vitro cytocompatibility of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in a chitosan/collagen-based composite. Mouse fibroblasts were cultured on the surface of a novel material consisting of CNTs in a chitosan/collagen-based composite (chitosan/collagen+CNTs group). Chitosan/collagen composites without CNTs served as the control material (chitosan/collagen group) and cells cultured normally in tissue culture plates served as blank controls (blank control group). Cell adhesion and proliferation were observed, and cell apoptosis was measured. The doubling time (DT1) of cells was significantly shorter in the chitosan/collagen+CNTs group than in the chitosan/collagen group, and that in the chitosan/collagen group was shorter than in the blank control group. The CNTs in the chitosan/collagen-based composites promoted mouse fibroblast adhesion, producing a distinct cytoskeletal structure. At 24 h after culture, the cytoskeleton of the cells in the chitosan/collagen+CNTs group displayed typical fibroblastic morphology, with clear microfilaments. Cells in the chitosan/collagen group were typically round, with an unclear cytoskeleton. The blank control group even had a few unattached cells. At 4 days after incubation, no early apoptosis of cells was detected in the blank control group, whereas early apoptosis of cells was observed in the chitosan/collagen+CNTs and chitosan/collagen groups. No significant difference in the proportion of living cells was detected among the three groups. After entering the plateau stage, the average cell number in the chitosan/collagen+CNTs group was similar to that in the chitosan/collagen group and significantly smaller than that in the blank control group. Early apoptosis of cells in the blank control group was not detectable. There were significant differences in early apoptosis among the three groups. These results suggest that CNTs in a chitosan/collagen-based composite did not cause significant cytotoxic effects on mouse fibroblasts. Compared with chitosan/collagen composites, early adhesion and proliferation of fibroblasts were increased on chitosan/collagen+CNTs. However, at relatively high cell densities, the CNTs in the chitosan/collagen-based composite might exert an inhibitory effect on mouse fibroblast proliferation by inducing apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Zhao
- Department of Stomatology, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, 324 jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China,
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22
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Xiao RR, Zeng WJ, Li YT, Zou W, Wang L, Pei XF, Xie M, Huang WH. Simultaneous generation of gradients with gradually changed slope in a microfluidic device for quantifying axon response. Anal Chem 2013; 85:7842-50. [PMID: 23865632 DOI: 10.1021/ac4022055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decades, various microfluidic devices have been developed to investigate the role of the molecular gradient in axonal development; however, there are very few devices providing quantitative information about the response of axons to molecular gradients with different slopes. Here, we propose a novel laminar-based microfluidic device enabling simultaneous generation of multiple gradients with gradually changed slope on a single chip. This device, with two asymmetrically designed peripheral channels and opposite flow direction, could generate gradients with gradually changed slope in the center channel, enabling us to investigate simultaneously the response of axons to multiple slope gradients with the same batch of neurons. We quantitatively investigated the response of axon growth rate and growth direction to substrate-bound laminin gradients with different slopes using this single-layer chip. Furthermore, we compartmented this gradient generation chip and a cell culture chip by a porous membrane to investigate quantitatively the response of axon growth rate to the gradient of soluble factor netrin-1. The results suggested that contacting with a molecular gradient would effectively accelerate neurites growth and enhance axonal formation, and the axon guidance ratio obviously increased with the increase of gradient slope in a proper range. The capability of generating a molecular gradient with continuously variable slopes on a single chip would open up opportunities for obtaining quantitative information about the sensitivity of axons and other types of cells in response to gradients of various proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong-Rong Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Biology and Medicine, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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23
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Bokara KK, Kim JY, Lee YI, Yun K, Webster TJ, Lee JE. Biocompatability of carbon nanotubes with stem cells to treat CNS injuries. Anat Cell Biol 2013; 46:85-92. [PMID: 23869255 PMCID: PMC3713283 DOI: 10.5115/acb.2013.46.2.85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2013] [Revised: 06/11/2013] [Accepted: 06/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cases reporting traumatic injuries to the brain and spinal cord are extended range of disorders that affect a large percentage of the world's population. But, there are only few effective treatments available for central nervous system (CNS) injuries because the CNS is refractory to axonal regeneration and relatively inaccessible to many pharmacological treatments. The use of stem cell therapy in regenerative medicine has been extensively examined to replace lost cells during CNS injuries. But, given the complexity of CNS injuries oxidative stress, toxic byproducts, which prevails in the microenvironment during the diseased condition, may limit the survival of the transplanted stem cells affecting tissue regeneration and even longevity. Carbon nanotubes (CNT) are a new class of nanomaterials, which have been shown to be promising in different areas of nanomedicine for the prevention, diagnosis and therapy of certain diseases, including CNS diseases. In particular, the use of CNTs as substrates/scaffolds for supporting the stem cell differentiation has been an area of active research. Single-walled and multi-walled CNT's have been increasingly used as scaffolds for neuronal growth and more recently for neural stem cell growth and differentiation. This review summarizes recent research on the application of CNT-based materials to direct the differentiation of progenitor and stem cells toward specific neurons and to enhance axon regeneration and synaptogenesis for the effective treatment of CNS injuries. Nonetheless, accumulating data support the use of CNTs as a biocompatible and permissive substrate/scaffold for neural cells and such application holds great potential in neurological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Kumar Bokara
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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24
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Gladwin KM, Whitby RLD, Mikhalovsky SV, Tomlins P, Adu J. In vitro biocompatibility of multiwalled carbon nanotubes with sensory neurons. Adv Healthc Mater 2013. [PMID: 23184463 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201200233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) possess unique properties rendering them a potentially useful biomaterial for neurobiological applications such as providing nanoscale contact-guidance cues for directing axon growth within peripheral nerve repair scaffolds. The in vitro biocompatibility of MWCNTs with postnatal mouse spinal sensory neurons was assessed for this application. Cell culture medium conditioned with MWCNTs was not significantly toxic to dissociated cultures of postnatal mouse dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons. However, exposure of DRG neurons to MWCNTs dispersed in culture medium resulted in a time- and dose-dependent reduction in neuronal viability. At 250 μg mL⁻¹, dispersed MWCNTs caused significant neuronal death and unusual neurite morphologies illustrated by immunofluorescent labelling of the cytoskeletal protein beta (III) tubulin, however, at a dose of 5 μg mL⁻¹ MWCNTs were nontoxic over a 14-day period. DRG neurons grown on fabricated MWCNT substrates produced neurite outgrowths with abnormal morphologies that were significantly inferior in length to neurons grown on the control substrate laminin. This evidence demonstrates that to be utilized as a biomaterial in tissue scaffolds for nerve repair, MWCNTs will require robust surface modification to enhance biocompatibility and growth promoting properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen M Gladwin
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Science, University of Brighton, Brighton, BN2 4GJ, UK
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25
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Bonifazi P, Difato F, Massobrio P, Breschi GL, Pasquale V, Levi T, Goldin M, Bornat Y, Tedesco M, Bisio M, Kanner S, Galron R, Tessadori J, Taverna S, Chiappalone M. In vitro large-scale experimental and theoretical studies for the realization of bi-directional brain-prostheses. Front Neural Circuits 2013; 7:40. [PMID: 23503997 PMCID: PMC3596784 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2013.00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2012] [Accepted: 02/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-machine interfaces (BMI) were born to control “actions from thoughts” in order to recover motor capability of patients with impaired functional connectivity between the central and peripheral nervous system. The final goal of our studies is the development of a new proof-of-concept BMI—a neuromorphic chip for brain repair—to reproduce the functional organization of a damaged part of the central nervous system. To reach this ambitious goal, we implemented a multidisciplinary “bottom-up” approach in which in vitro networks are the paradigm for the development of an in silico model to be incorporated into a neuromorphic device. In this paper we present the overall strategy and focus on the different building blocks of our studies: (i) the experimental characterization and modeling of “finite size networks” which represent the smallest and most general self-organized circuits capable of generating spontaneous collective dynamics; (ii) the induction of lesions in neuronal networks and the whole brain preparation with special attention on the impact on the functional organization of the circuits; (iii) the first production of a neuromorphic chip able to implement a real-time model of neuronal networks. A dynamical characterization of the finite size circuits with single cell resolution is provided. A neural network model based on Izhikevich neurons was able to replicate the experimental observations. Changes in the dynamics of the neuronal circuits induced by optical and ischemic lesions are presented respectively for in vitro neuronal networks and for a whole brain preparation. Finally the implementation of a neuromorphic chip reproducing the network dynamics in quasi-real time (10 ns precision) is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Bonifazi
- School of Physics and Astronomy, Tel Aviv University Tel Aviv, Israel
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26
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Bareket-Keren L, Hanein Y. Carbon nanotube-based multi electrode arrays for neuronal interfacing: progress and prospects. Front Neural Circuits 2013; 6:122. [PMID: 23316141 PMCID: PMC3540767 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2012.00122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2012] [Accepted: 12/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Carbon nanotube (CNT) coatings have been demonstrated over the past several years as a promising material for neuronal interfacing applications. In particular, in the realm of neuronal implants, CNTs have major advantages owing to their unique mechanical and electrical properties. Here we review recent investigations utilizing CNTs in neuro-interfacing applications. Cell adhesion, neuronal engineering and multi electrode recordings with CNTs are described. We also highlight prospective advances in this field, in particular, progress toward flexible, bio-compatible CNT-based technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilach Bareket-Keren
- School of Electrical Engineering, Tel-Aviv UniversityTel-Aviv, Israel
- Tel-Aviv University Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel-Aviv UniversityTel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yael Hanein
- School of Electrical Engineering, Tel-Aviv UniversityTel-Aviv, Israel
- Tel-Aviv University Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel-Aviv UniversityTel-Aviv, Israel
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Béduer A, Seichepine F, Flahaut E, Loubinoux I, Vaysse L, Vieu C. Elucidation of the role of carbon nanotube patterns on the development of cultured neuronal cells. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2012. [PMID: 23190396 DOI: 10.1021/la304278n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) promise various novel neural biomedical applications for interfacing neurons with electronic devices or to design appropriate biomaterials for tissue regeneration. In this study, we use a new methodology to pattern SiO(2) cell culture surfaces with double-walled carbon nanotubes (DWNTs). In contrast to homogeneous surfaces, patterned surfaces allow us to investigate new phenomena about the interactions between neural cells and CNTs. Our results demonstrate that thin layers of DWNTs can serve as effective substrates for neural cell culture. Growing neurons sense the physical and chemical properties of the local substrate in a contact-dependent manner and retrieve essential guidance cues. Cells exhibit comparable adhesion and differentiation scores on homogeneous CNT layers and on a homogeneous control SiO(2) surface. Conversely, on patterned surfaces, it is found that cells preferentially grow on CNT patterns and that neurites are guided by micrometric CNT patterns. To further elucidate this observation, we investigate the interactions between CNTs and proteins that are contained in the cell culture medium by using quartz crystal microbalance measurements. Finally, we show that protein adsorption is enhanced on CNT features and that this effect is thickness dependent. CNTs seem to act as a sponge for culture medium elements, possibly explaining the selectivity in cell growth localization and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amélie Béduer
- CNRS-LAAS, 7 avenue du colonel Roche, F-31400 Toulouse, France.
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Nick C, Joshi R, Schneider JJ, Thielemann C. Three-Dimensional Carbon Nanotube Electrodes for Extracellular Recording of Cardiac Myocytes. Biointerphases 2012; 7:58. [DOI: 10.1007/s13758-012-0058-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2012] [Accepted: 08/23/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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Self-organizing circuit assembly through spatiotemporally coordinated neuronal migration within geometric constraints. PLoS One 2011; 6:e28156. [PMID: 22132234 PMCID: PMC3222678 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0028156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2011] [Accepted: 11/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurons are dynamically coupled with each other through neurite-mediated adhesion during development. Understanding the collective behavior of neurons in circuits is important for understanding neural development. While a number of genetic and activity-dependent factors regulating neuronal migration have been discovered on single cell level, systematic study of collective neuronal migration has been lacking. Various biological systems are shown to be self-organized, and it is not known if neural circuit assembly is self-organized. Besides, many of the molecular factors take effect through spatial patterns, and coupled biological systems exhibit emergent property in response to geometric constraints. How geometric constraints of the patterns regulate neuronal migration and circuit assembly of neurons within the patterns remains unexplored. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We established a two-dimensional model for studying collective neuronal migration of a circuit, with hippocampal neurons from embryonic rats on Matrigel-coated self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). When the neural circuit is subject to geometric constraints of a critical scale, we found that the collective behavior of neuronal migration is spatiotemporally coordinated. Neuronal somata that are evenly distributed upon adhesion tend to aggregate at the geometric center of the circuit, forming mono-clusters. Clustering formation is geometry-dependent, within a critical scale from 200 µm to approximately 500 µm. Finally, somata clustering is neuron-type specific, and glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons tend to aggregate homo-philically. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE We demonstrate self-organization of neural circuits in response to geometric constraints through spatiotemporally coordinated neuronal migration, possibly via mechanical coupling. We found that such collective neuronal migration leads to somata clustering, and mono-cluster appears when the geometric constraints fall within a critical scale. The discovery of geometry-dependent collective neuronal migration and the formation of somata clustering in vitro shed light on neural development in vivo.
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Kanagasabapathi TT, Ciliberti D, Martinoia S, Wadman WJ, Decré MMJ. Dual-compartment neurofluidic system for electrophysiological measurements in physically segregated and functionally connected neuronal cell culture. FRONTIERS IN NEUROENGINEERING 2011; 4:13. [PMID: 22025913 PMCID: PMC3198030 DOI: 10.3389/fneng.2011.00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2011] [Accepted: 10/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We developed a dual-compartment neurofluidic system with inter-connecting microchannels to connect neurons from their respective compartments, placed on a planar microelectrode arrays. The design and development of the compartmented microfluidic device for neuronal cell culture, protocol for sustaining long-term cultures, and neurite growth through microchannels in such a closed compartment device are presented. Using electrophysiological measurements of spontaneous network activity in the compartments and selective pharmacological manipulation of cells in one compartment, the biological origin of network activity and the fluidic isolation between the compartments are demonstrated. The connectivity between neuronal populations via the microchannels and the crossing-over of neurites are verified using transfection experiments and immunofluorescence staining. In addition to the neurite cross-over to the adjacent compartment, functional connectivity between cells in both the compartments is verified using cross-correlation (CC) based techniques. Bidirectional signal propagation between the compartments is demonstrated using functional connectivity maps. CC analysis and connectivity maps demonstrate that the two neuronal populations are not only functionally connected within each compartment but also with each other and a well connected functional network was formed between the compartments despite the physical barrier introduced by the microchannels.
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Shein-Idelson M, Ben-Jacob E, Hanein Y. Engineered neuronal circuits: a new platform for studying the role of modular topology. FRONTIERS IN NEUROENGINEERING 2011; 4:10. [PMID: 21991254 PMCID: PMC3180629 DOI: 10.3389/fneng.2011.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2011] [Accepted: 08/23/2011] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Neuron–glia cultures serve as a valuable model system for exploring the bio-molecular activity of single cells. Since neurons in culture can be conveniently recorded with great fidelity from many sites simultaneously, it has long been suggested that uniform cultured neurons may also be used to investigate network-level mechanisms pertinent to information processing, activity propagation, memory, and learning. But how much of the functionality of neural circuits can be retained in vitro remains an open question. Recent studies utilizing patterned networks suggest that they provide a most useful platform to address fundamental questions in neuroscience. Here we review recent efforts in the realm of patterned networks’ activity investigations. We give a brief overview of the patterning methods and experimental approaches commonly employed in the field, and summarize the main results reported in the literature. The general picture that emerges from these reports indicates that patterned networks with uniform connectivity do not exhibit unique activity patterns. Rather, their activity is very similar to that of unpatterned uniform networks. However, by breaking the connectivity homogeneity, using a modular architecture, it is possible to introduce pronounced topology-related gating and delay effects. These findings suggest that patterned cultured networks may serve as a new platform for studying the role of modularity in neuronal circuits.
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Xie J, Liu W, MacEwan MR, Yeh YC, Thomopoulos S, Xia Y. Nanofiber membranes with controllable microwells and structural cues and their use in forming cell microarrays and neuronal networks. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2011; 7:293-297. [PMID: 21294253 PMCID: PMC3075353 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201001446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2010] [Revised: 09/29/2010] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jingwei Xie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130 (USA)
| | - Wenying Liu
- Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130 (USA)
| | - Matthew R. MacEwan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130 (USA)
| | - Yi-Chun Yeh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130 (USA)
| | - Stavros Thomopoulos
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110 (USA)
| | - Younan Xia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130 (USA)
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Ben-Yoav H, Melamed S, Freeman A, Shacham-Diamand Y, Belkin S. Whole-cell biochips for bio-sensing: integration of live cells and inanimate surfaces. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2010; 31:337-53. [PMID: 21190513 DOI: 10.3109/07388551.2010.532767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in the convergence of the biological, chemical, physical, and engineering sciences have opened new avenues of research into the interfacing of diverse biological moieties with inanimate platforms. A main aspect of this field, the integration of live cells with micro-machined platforms for high throughput and bio-sensing applications, is the subject of the present review. These unique hybrid systems are configured in a manner that ensures positioning of the cells in designated patterns, and enables cellular viability maintenance, and monitoring of cellular functionality. Here we review both animate and inanimate surface properties and how they affect cellular attachment, describe relevant modifications of both types of surfaces, list technologies for platform engineering and for cell deposition in the desired configurations, and discuss the influence of various deposition and immobilization methods on the viability and performance of the immobilized cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadar Ben-Yoav
- Department of Physical Electronics, School of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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34
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Shein Idelson M, Ben-Jacob E, Hanein Y. Innate synchronous oscillations in freely-organized small neuronal circuits. PLoS One 2010; 5:e14443. [PMID: 21203438 PMCID: PMC3010988 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0014443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2010] [Accepted: 11/30/2010] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Information processing in neuronal networks relies on the network's ability to generate temporal patterns of action potentials. Although the nature of neuronal network activity has been intensively investigated in the past several decades at the individual neuron level, the underlying principles of the collective network activity, such as the synchronization and coordination between neurons, are largely unknown. Here we focus on isolated neuronal clusters in culture and address the following simple, yet fundamental questions: What is the minimal number of cells needed to exhibit collective dynamics? What are the internal temporal characteristics of such dynamics and how do the temporal features of network activity alternate upon crossover from minimal networks to large networks? Methodology/Principal Findings We used network engineering techniques to induce self-organization of cultured networks into neuronal clusters of different sizes. We found that small clusters made of as few as 40 cells already exhibit spontaneous collective events characterized by innate synchronous network oscillations in the range of 25 to 100 Hz. The oscillation frequency of each network appeared to be independent of cluster size. The duration and rate of the network events scale with cluster size but converge to that of large uniform networks. Finally, the investigation of two coupled clusters revealed clear activity propagation with master/slave asymmetry. Conclusions/Significance The nature of the activity patterns observed in small networks, namely the consistent emergence of similar activity across networks of different size and morphology, suggests that neuronal clusters self-regulate their activity to sustain network bursts with internal oscillatory features. We therefore suggest that clusters of as few as tens of cells can serve as a minimal but sufficient functional network, capable of sustaining oscillatory activity. Interestingly, the frequencies of these oscillations are similar those observed in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eshel Ben-Jacob
- School of Physics, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- * E-mail: (EB-J); (YH)
| | - Yael Hanein
- School of Electrical Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- * E-mail: (EB-J); (YH)
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Rothschild RM. Neuroengineering tools/applications for bidirectional interfaces, brain-computer interfaces, and neuroprosthetic implants - a review of recent progress. FRONTIERS IN NEUROENGINEERING 2010; 3:112. [PMID: 21060801 PMCID: PMC2972680 DOI: 10.3389/fneng.2010.00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2010] [Accepted: 09/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The main focus of this review is to provide a holistic amalgamated overview of the most recent human in vivo techniques for implementing brain–computer interfaces (BCIs), bidirectional interfaces, and neuroprosthetics. Neuroengineering is providing new methods for tackling current difficulties; however neuroprosthetics have been studied for decades. Recent progresses are permitting the design of better systems with higher accuracies, repeatability, and system robustness. Bidirectional interfaces integrate recording and the relaying of information from and to the brain for the development of BCIs. The concepts of non-invasive and invasive recording of brain activity are introduced. This includes classical and innovative techniques like electroencephalography and near-infrared spectroscopy. Then the problem of gliosis and solutions for (semi-) permanent implant biocompatibility such as innovative implant coatings, materials, and shapes are discussed. Implant power and the transmission of their data through implanted pulse generators and wireless telemetry are taken into account. How sensation can be relayed back to the brain to increase integration of the neuroengineered systems with the body by methods such as micro-stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation are then addressed. The neuroprosthetic section discusses some of the various types and how they operate. Visual prosthetics are discussed and the three types, dependant on implant location, are examined. Auditory prosthetics, being cochlear or cortical, are then addressed. Replacement hand and limb prosthetics are then considered. These are followed by sections concentrating on the control of wheelchairs, computers and robotics directly from brain activity as recorded by non-invasive and invasive techniques.
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Abstract
High-density carbon nanotube (CNT)-coated surfaces are highly neuro-adhesive. When shaped into regular arrays of isolated islands on a non-adhesive support substrate (such as a clean glass), CNTs can function as effective encoring sites for neurons and glia cells for in-vitro applications. Primarily, patterned CNT islands provide a means to form complex, engineered, interconnected neuronal networks with pre-designed geometry via utilizing the self-assembly process of neurons. Depositing these CNT islands onto multielectrode array chip can facilitate both cell anchoring but also electrical interfacing between the electrodes and the neurons.
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37
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Gabi M, Larmagnac A, Schulte P, Vörös J. Electrically controlling cell adhesion, growth and migration. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2010; 79:365-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2010.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2010] [Revised: 04/20/2010] [Accepted: 04/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Zhang Y, Bai Y, Yan B. Functionalized carbon nanotubes for potential medicinal applications. Drug Discov Today 2010; 15:428-35. [PMID: 20451656 PMCID: PMC4830352 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2010.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2009] [Revised: 03/24/2010] [Accepted: 04/27/2010] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Functionalized carbon nanotubes display unique properties that enable a variety of medicinal applications, including the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and central nervous system disorders, and applications in tissue engineering. These potential applications are particularly encouraged by their ability to penetrate biological membranes and relatively low toxicity. High aspect ratio, unique optical property and the likeness as small molecule make carbon nanotubes an unusual allotrope of element carbon. After functionalization, carbon nanotubes display potentials for a variety of medicinal applications, including the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and central nervous system disorders, and applications in tissue engineering. These potential applications are particularly encouraged by their ability to penetrate biological membranes and relatively low toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100, China
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39
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Khan S, Newaz G. A comprehensive review of surface modification for neural cell adhesion and patterning. J Biomed Mater Res A 2010; 93:1209-24. [DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.32698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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40
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Abstract
Carbon nanotubes have electrical, mechanical and chemical properties that make them one of the most promising materials for applications in neuroscience. Single-walled and multi-walled carbon nanotubes have been increasingly used as scaffolds for neuronal growth and more recently for neural stem cell growth and differentiation. They are also used in interfaces with neurons, where they can detect neuronal electrical activity and also deliver electrical stimulation to these cells. The emerging picture is that carbon nanotubes do not have obvious adverse effects on mammalian health. Thus in the near future they could be used in brain-machine interfaces.
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41
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Greenbaum A, Anava S, Ayali A, Shein M, David-Pur M, Ben-Jacob E, Hanein Y. One-to-one neuron–electrode interfacing. J Neurosci Methods 2009; 182:219-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2009.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2009] [Revised: 06/09/2009] [Accepted: 06/10/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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42
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Sucapane A, Cellot G, Prato M, Giugliano M, Parpura V, Ballerini L. Interactions Between Cultured Neurons and Carbon Nanotubes: A Nanoneuroscience Vignette. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 1:10-16. [PMID: 19865604 DOI: 10.1166/jns.2009.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Carbon nanotubes, owing to their electrical, chemical, mechanical, and thermal properties, are one of the most promising nanomaterials for the electronics, computer, and aerospace industries. More recently, these unique materials are finding their niche in neuroscience. Here, we discuss the use of carbon nanotubes as scaffolds for neuronal growth. The chemical properties of carbon nanotubes can be systematically varied by attaching different functional groups. Such functionalized carbon nanotubes can be used to control the outgrowth and branching pattern of neuronal processes. We also discuss electrical interactions between neurons and carbon nanotubes. The electrical properties of nanotubes can provide a mechanism to monitor or stimulate neurons through the scaffold itself. The ease of which carbon nanotubes can be patterned makes them attractive for studying the organization of neural networks and has the potential to develop new devices for neural prosthesis. We note that additional toxicity studies of carbon nanotubes are necessary so that exposure guidelines and safety regulations can be set.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Sucapane
- Physiology and Pathology Department, B.R.A.I.N., University of Trieste, via Fleming 22, I-34127, Trieste, Italy
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43
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Veetil JV, Ye K. Tailored carbon nanotubes for tissue engineering applications. Biotechnol Prog 2009; 25:709-21. [DOI: 10.1002/btpr.165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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44
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Shoval A, Adams C, David-Pur M, Shein M, Hanein Y, Sernagor E. Carbon nanotube electrodes for effective interfacing with retinal tissue. FRONTIERS IN NEUROENGINEERING 2009; 2:4. [PMID: 19430595 PMCID: PMC2679158 DOI: 10.3389/neuro.16.004.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2009] [Accepted: 04/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
We have investigated the use of carbon nanotube coated microelectrodes as an interface material for retinal recording and stimulation applications. Test devices were micro-fabricated and consisted of 60, 30 μm diameter electrodes at spacing of 200 μm. These electrodes were coated via chemical vapor deposition of carbon nanotubes, resulting in conducting, three dimensional surfaces with a high interfacial area. These attributes are important both for the quality of the cell-surface coupling as well as for electro-chemical interfacing efficiency. The entire chip was packaged to fit a commercial multielectrode recording and stimulation system. Electrical recordings of spontaneous spikes from whole-mount neonatal mouse retinas were consistently obtained minutes after retinas were placed over the electrodes, exhibiting typical bursting and propagating waves. Most importantly, the signals obtained with carbon nanotube electrodes have exceptionally high signal to noise ratio, reaching values as high as 75. Moreover, spikes are marked by a conspicuous gradual increase in amplitude recorded over a period of minutes to hours, suggesting improvement in cell-electrode coupling. This phenomenon is not observed in conventional commercial electrodes. Electrical stimulation using carbon nanotube electrodes was also achieved. We attribute the superior performances of the carbon nanotube electrodes to their three dimensional nature and the strong neuro-carbon nanotube affinity. The results presented here show the great potential of carbon nanotube electrodes for retinal interfacing applications. Specifically, our results demonstrate a route to achieve a reduction of the electrode down to few micrometers in order to achieve high efficacy local stimulation needed in retinal prosthetic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asaf Shoval
- School of Electrical Engineering, Tel-Aviv University Tel-Aviv, Israel
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45
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Anava S, Greenbaum A, Ben Jacob E, Hanein Y, Ayali A. The regulative role of neurite mechanical tension in network development. Biophys J 2009; 96:1661-70. [PMID: 19217881 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2008.10.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2008] [Accepted: 10/31/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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 development revealed an innate selection mechanism in which one axon branch wins over another. The apparent mechanism entails the build-up of mechanical tension in developing axons. The tension is maintained by the attachment of the growth cone to the substrate or, alternatively, to the neurites of a target neuron. The induced tension promotes the stabilization of one set of axon branches while causing retraction or elimination of axon collaterals. We suggest that these findings represent a crucial, early step that precedes the formation of synapses and regulates neuronal interconnections. Mechanical tension serves as a signal for survival of the axonal branch and perhaps for the subsequent formation of synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarit Anava
- Department of Zoology, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978 Israel
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46
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Saito N, Usui Y, Aoki K, Narita N, Shimizu M, Hara K, Ogiwara N, Nakamura K, Ishigaki N, Kato H, Taruta S, Endo M. Carbon nanotubes: biomaterial applications. Chem Soc Rev 2009; 38:1897-903. [PMID: 19551170 DOI: 10.1039/b804822n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the unique biological and medical properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and it is expected that biomaterials incorporating CNTs will be developed for clinical use. There has been a great deal of progress in improving the various properties of CNTs for use in biomaterials and for promotion of tissue regeneration as scaffold materials. The effects of CNTs on cells and tissues are extremely important for their use in biomaterials. This tutorial review clarifies the current state of knowledge in the interdisciplinary field of CNT-based nanobiotechnology to determine whether CNTs may be useful in biomaterials. Future perspectives in this rapidly developing field will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoto Saito
- Department of Applied Physical Therapy, Shinshu University School of Health Sciences, Matsumoto, Nagano, 390-8621, Japan.
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47
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Sorkin R, Greenbaum A, David-Pur M, Anava S, Ayali A, Ben-Jacob E, Hanein Y. Process entanglement as a neuronal anchorage mechanism to rough surfaces. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2009; 20:015101. [PMID: 19417241 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/20/1/015101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The organization of neurons and glia cells on substrates composed of pristine carbon nanotube islands was investigated using high resolution scanning electron microscopy, immunostaining and confocal microscopy. Neurons were found bound and preferentially anchored to the rough surfaces; moreover, the morphology of the neuronal processes on the small, isolated islands of high density carbon nanotubes was found to be conspicuously curled and entangled. We further demonstrate that the roughness of the surface must match the diameter of the neuronal processes in order to allow them to bind. The results presented here suggest that entanglement, a mechanical effect, may constitute an additional mechanism by which neurons (and possibly other cell types) anchor themselves to rough surfaces. Understanding the nature of the interface between neurons and carbon nanotubes is essential to effectively harness carbon nanotube technology in neurological applications such as neuro-prosthetic and retinal electrodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raya Sorkin
- School of Electrical Engineering, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
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48
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Lee W, Parpura V. Carbon nanotubes as substrates/scaffolds for neural cell growth. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2009; 180:110-25. [DOI: 10.1016/s0079-6123(08)80006-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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49
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Engineered neuronal circuits shaped and interfaced with carbon nanotube microelectrode arrays. Biomed Microdevices 2008; 11:495-501. [DOI: 10.1007/s10544-008-9255-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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50
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Shein M, Volman V, Raichman N, Hanein Y, Ben-Jacob E. Management of synchronized network activity by highly active neurons. Phys Biol 2008; 5:036008. [DOI: 10.1088/1478-3975/5/3/036008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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