Silicon scaffolds promoting three-dimensional neuronal web of cytoplasmic processes.
Primary neurons were grown on structured silicon (Si) substrates, in the absence of chemotropic factors or synthetic extracellular matrix. The Si substrates used for the study comprise hierarchical structures in the micro- and nanolength scales. The substrates were structured via femtosecond laser irradiation of the Si wafer, in a reactive SF(6) environment. Electron microscopy revealed that the neurons formed an elaborate web of cytoplasmic processes in the absence of glial elements. The neuronal cytoplasm autografted the depth of the spikes, and the neurite sprouting took place over the spikes surface. Here we demonstrate how microfabrication of a Si surface provides an excellent platform for multifaceted studies of neuronal specimens.
Papadopoulou
Evie L
EL
Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Institute of Electronic Structure and Lasers, Heraklion, Greece. eviep@iesl.forth.gr
Samara
Athina
A
Barberoglou
Marios
M
Manousaki
Aleka
A
Pagakis
Stamatis N
SN
Anastasiadou
Ema
E
Fotakis
Costas
C
Stratakis
Emmanuel
E
D003593:Cytoplasm / Q000737:chemistry*; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D009474:Neurons / Q000502:physiology*; D012825:Silicon / Q000737:chemistry*
D012825:Silicon