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Compact self-wiring in cultured neural networks

R Sorkin1, T Gabay1, P Blinder2, D Baranes2, E Ben-Jacob3 and Y Hanein1

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We present a novel approach for patterning cultured neural networks in which a particular geometry is achieved via anchoring of cell clusters (tens of cells/each) at specific positions. In addition, compact connections among pairs of clusters occur spontaneously through a single non-adherent straight bundle composed of axons and dendrites. The anchors that stabilize the cell clusters are either poly-D-lysine, a strong adhesive substrate, or carbon nanotubes. Square, triangular and circular structures of connectivity were successfully realized. Monitoring the dynamics of the forming networks in real time revealed that the self-assembly process is mainly driven by the ability of the neuronal cell clusters to move away from each other while continuously stretching a neurite bundle in between. Using the presented technique, we achieved networks with wiring regions which are made exclusively of neuronal processes unbound to the surface. The resulted network patterns are very stable and can be maintained for as long as 11 weeks. The approach can be used to build advanced neuro-chips for bio-sensing applications (e.g. drug and toxin detection) where the structure, stability and reproducibility of the networks are of great relevance.


PACS

87.18.Sn Neural networks and synaptic communication

87.17.-d Cell processes

87.64.M- Optical microscopy

87.17.Jj Cell locomotion, chemotaxis

87.19.L- Neuroscience

Subjects

Medical physics

Biological physics

Dates

Issue 2 (June 2006)

Received 9 January 2006, accepted for publication 2 March 2006

Published 11 April 2006



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