Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanofiber Architecture as a Multifunctional 3-D Neural Electrical Interface

Abstract

Developing biomaterial constructs that closely mimic the natural tissue microenvironment with its complex chemical and physical cues is essential for improving the function and reliability of implantable devices, especially those that require direct neural-electrical interfaces. Here we demonstrate that free-standing vertically aligned carbon nanofiber (VACNF) arrays can be used as a multifunctional 3-D brush-like nanoengineered matrix that interpenetrates the neuronal network of PC12 cells. We found that PC12 neuron cells cultured on VACNF substrates can form extended neural network upon proper chemical and biochemical modifications. The soft 3-D VACNF architecture provides a new platform to fine-tune the topographical, mechanical, chemical, and electrical cues at subcellular nanoscale. This new biomaterial platform can be used for both fundamental studies of material-cell interactions and the development of chronically stable implantable neural devices. Micropatterned multiplex VACNF arrays can be selectively controlled by electrical and electrochemical methods to provide localized stimulation with extraordinary spatiotemporal resolution. Further development of this technology may potentially result in a highly multiplex closed-loop system with multifunctions for neuromodulation and neuroprostheses.

Patterned carbon nanotubes as a new three-dimensional scaffold for mesenchymal stem cells

“…Schematic representation of experimental approach. scaffold [9,22]. For instance, Cho and Borgens prepared electrically conductive collagen/MWCNT composite structures and investigated the effect of CNT loading and applied electrical stimuli on the cell viability of PC12 [29].…”

“…Recently, numerous studies reported on the effects of topographical patterns on cell viability [6,7]. In this regard, patterning of scaffold surfaces at a nanometer scale is considered as a promising tool [8,9]. It is reported that gene expressions of fibroblast cells were found to be enhanced on relatively rougher surfaces [10].…”

Robustness in TDMA Scheduling for Neuron-based Molecular Communication

“…This assumption is made upon numerous research efforts to grow neurons on substrates (e.g., [15]) and design topologically-specific neuronal networks (e.g., [9,13,21]). Figure 3 illustrates an example neuron-based BANN.…”

The Development of Brain-Machine Interface Neuroprosthetic Devices

“…18 -20 In addition, the development of carbon nanotube technologies appear to have potential to help to establish biologically advantageous connections to neurons with improved electrical properties. 21 Other areas of improvement include the incorporation of microfluidics into silicon-based devices. Currently, there are few options for stable, long-term recording arrays that can meet the required biocompatibility standards for materials implanted into the brain (e.g., use of platinum/ iridium electrode coatings), severely limiting even highly preliminary testing of these devices for human use.…”