Developmental neurobiology implications from fabrication and analysis of hippocampal neuronal networks on patterned silane-modified surfaces

We have determined the parameters necessary to fabricate reproducible neuronal patterns which we are using to begin studying fundamental issues in developmental neurobiology. The addition of a beam homogenizer, as well as a new surface preparation, has enabled the routine production of reproducible, high-resolution (2-20 mu m) organosilane patterns. The effects of surface preparation and beam dosage were monitored using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and proof of patterning is provided by high-resolution imaging XPS. We also report the guidance of neuronal adhesion and neurite outgrowth and the creation of reproducibly defined circuits of embryonic (E18-19) rat hippocampal neurons using these patterned surfaces in vitro. We have achieved a >50% rate of pattern formation, and at times the rate approaches 90%. We are using these patterns to address the issue of how geometric pattern cues might be used to affect cell-to-cell communication and we report the preliminary results on the synaptic development of the hippocampal neurons using dual patch-clamp electrophysiology. We monitored neurite outgrowth and the emergence of both spontaneous and evoked synaptic activity for both patterned and unpatterned (control) hippocampal cultures. The results indicate the intriguing possibility that geometry itself may be a modulating or trophic factor for cell development.