Department of Nanostructures, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.
Small. 2013 Feb 11;9(3):402-12. doi: 10.1002/smll.201201377. Epub 2012 Oct 2.
The generation of 3D networks of primary neurons is a big challenge in neuroscience. Here, a novel method is presented for a 3D neuronal culture on superhydrophobic (SH) substrates. How nano-patterned SH devices stimulate neurons to build 3D networks is investigated. Scanning electron microscopy and confocal imaging show that soon after plating neurites adhere to the nanopatterned pillar sidewalls and they are subsequently pulled between pillars in a suspended position. These neurons display an enhanced survival rate compared to standard cultures and develop mature networks with physiological excitability. These findings underline the importance of using nanostructured SH surfaces for directing 3D neuronal growth, as well as for the design of biomaterials for neuronal regeneration.
原代神经元 3D 网络的生成是神经科学的一大挑战。本文提出了一种在超疏水（SH）基底上进行 3D 神经元培养的新方法。研究了纳米图案 SH 器件如何刺激神经元构建 3D 网络。扫描电子显微镜和共聚焦成像显示，在接种后不久，突起就会附着在纳米图案化支柱的侧壁上，随后在悬空状态下被拉到支柱之间。与标准培养相比，这些神经元具有更高的存活率，并发育出具有生理兴奋性的成熟网络。这些发现强调了使用纳米结构 SH 表面来引导 3D 神经元生长的重要性，以及用于神经元再生的生物材料的设计。
