Book/Dissertation / PhD Thesis

FZJ-2021-02402

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Engineering neuronal networks in vitro: From single cells to population connectivity

Tihaa, I. (Corresponding author)FZJ*

2021
Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH Zentralbibliothek, Verlag Jülich
ISBN: 978-3-95806-597-0

Please use a persistent id in citations: http://hdl.handle.net/2128/29593  urn:nbn:de:0001-2022020805

Abstract: The mammalian brain shows multiple levels of organisation ranging from single cell to regional organisation level. Structure and function are dependent on each other. The aim of this thesis is to incorporate the essential feature of organisation into cultured neuronal networks via microcontact printing (µCP). We do so to better understand the impact of pattern geometry onto network architecture, extend the $\textit{in vitro}$ models and provide more relevant systems. The first part of this thesis considers single cell connectivity. Grid and star pattern designs featuring nodes and lines are utilized to control soma position and neurite elongation. Morphological analysis via immunouorescence and live cell imaging revealed a high dependence of soma position and axon guiding efficiency on the patterns. For soma position itself the shape, dimensions and proportions of the pattern features are of great importance. Calcium imaging and electrical recordings with multi-electrode arrays (MEAs) proved functional connectivity of the created single cell networks.In the second part, triangular shaped structures were used to create modular neuronal networks with differently sized populations. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed a highly directional structural connectivity between the populations. Calcium imaging analyses demonstrated a high intra-population and a weaker inter-population interconnectedness, a typical feature of modularly organised networks. Moreover, synchrony was observed to decrease with increasing population size indicating a rise in architectural complexity. Overall, this thesis illustrates the potential of µCP for designing $\textit{in vitro}$ neuronal networks with micro- to mesoscale level of organisation. Here, the pattern design is crucial for the network architecture. A deeper understanding of the impact of pattern geometry onto network formation might contribute to a greater use of defined networks for neurobiological experiments by enhancing efficiency and predictability of patterned cultures. [...]

Note: RWTH Aachen, Diss., 2021

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. Bioelektronik (IBI-3)

Research Program(s):

1. 524 - Molecular and Cellular Information Processing (POF4-524) (POF4-524)

Appears in the scientific report 2021

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