Novel MEA platform with PDMS microtunnels enables the detection of action potential propagation from isolated axons in culture

Abstract

This study investigated a novel multi-electrode-array (MEA) design capable of long-term and highly selective recordings of axonal signals using PDMS microtunnels. We successfully grew neurons in culture so that only axons extended through narrow (10 µm wide by 3 µm high) and long (750 µm) microtunnels under which multiple electrodes were integrated. This permitted the recording of relatively large (up to 200 µV) electrical signals, including the propagation speed and direction of these travelling action potentials. To further demonstrate the operation of the device as a diagnostic tool for drug screening assays, the drug mepivacaine was applied in washout experiments. Here, we identified significant changes in mean spiking rate and conduction velocity.

In vitro Verification of a 3-D Regenerative Neural Interface Design: Examination of Neurite Growth and Electrical Properties Within a Bifurcating Microchannel Structure

“…As well, conduction velocities could be estimated, with reported values of 1.10 m/s to 0.16 m/s falling within the range of previously reported conduction velocities [8], [20].…”

“…Similar to the sieve electrode, mechanical stability should be inherent since the body effectively incorporates the interface into the neural tissue via the regenerating neurons [5]. As well, electrophysiological signal recording can be greatly improved when detecting signals within the confined spaces of the guidance scaffold [6]- [8]. This could greatly contribute to creating a more robust interface capable of very reliable recordings.…”

Surface Coating as a Key Parameter in Engineering Neuronal Network Structures In Vitro

“…Many cell types have been successfully patterned with microfluidics [14][15][16], lCP [17], inkjet printing [18,19], plasma treatment [20], self-assembled monolayers [21][22][23][24], self-assembled constructs [25], laser scanning lithography [26], atomic force microscope lithography, dip-pen nanolithography [27], topography [28,29], carbon nano-tubes [30], or their combinations [31,32]. Neurons are, however, distinctive cells with highly polarized morphology, much smaller somata, and thus few anchoring points for adhesion in comparison to most types of adherent mammalian cells.…”

Tissue engineered organoids for neural network modelling

“…PDMS) and are low-cost disposable devices. 103,104 The original design seen in Fig.1C has been widely used for a variety of different co-cultures, with recent examples including: cortical neurons, 105,106 cortical-cortical and cortical-thalamic coculture systems, 107,108 hippocampal-glial co culture systems, 109,110 cortical neurons co-cultured with genetically modified astrocytes, 111 embryonic forebrain neurons co-cultured with oligodendrocytes, 112 primary CNS neurons co-cultured with oligodendrocytes and astrocytes, 113 dendrite growth modelling, 114 hippocampal axon compression injury, 115 synapse formation in hippocampal neurons, 116 embryonic neurons 117 and P19-derived neurons co-cultured with mouse cortical neurons. 118 These models allow for simultaneous segregation and connection between two or more cultures of neuronal and/or glial cells.…”