Bridging two cultures: Minimalistic networks prepared by microfl uidic arraying, and open access compartments for electrophysiology
Journal
Neuromethods
Journal Volume
103
ISBN
978-1-4939-2509-4
978-1-4939-2510-0
Date Issued
2015-01-01
Author(s)
West, Jonathan
Dinh, Ngoc Duy
Hardelauf, Heike
Newman, Tracey A.
Vargas-Caballero, Mariana
Asuni, Ayodeji A.
Deinhardt, Katrin
Arundell, Martin
Abstract
Microfabrication protocols are described for two compartmentalized neuron culture platforms which extend beyond the capabilities of conventional systems. The fi rst involves a differential fl ow microfl uidic circuit for arraying single neurons, along with protocols for in chip biomaterial patterning and the selective treatment of somata or outgrowth compartments. These minimalistic neuronal networks are ideal for spatially resolved research using rare and precious neuronal subtypes as well as parallelization for screening biochemical libraries. The second, open-access, system solves the micro-to-macro interface challenge to enable the insertion of micromanipulators for electrophysiology studies or localized perturbation using a microinjector. This system is especially useful for the spatiotemporal investigation of mechanisms underlying disease, such as neurodegeneration and epileptic seizures. Design fi les along with soft lithography replication techniques are provided to facilitate the straightforward uptake of these platforms. Technology integration approaches are also presented for the alignment of arrayed neurons with individual microelectrodes for highly parallel electrophysiological and electrochemical measurements throughout nodes in the compartmentalized neuronal network.
Subjects
Alzheimer and Parkinson disease | Blood–brain barrier | Cell patterning | Electrophysiology | Epilepsy | Long-range signaling | Microfl uidics | Neurodegeneration | Soft lithography | User-friendly
Type
journal article