2D Neurons Models
Engineered Surfaces to Study Neuronal Network Formation
Discover each assay
Click on
Control of neurons connectivity
​
Isolation of different cell types to reconstitute the in vivo organization
NEURONAL NETWORK IN A WELL
Control of neurons connectivity
4Dcell technology
SmartPattern Technology
​​
Read-outs
Trafficking, outgrowth, propagation of action potentials and other signals
​
Standard culture limitation
The differentiation of neuronal cells from iPSC results in clusters of neurons, which precludes the analysis of individual neurons and defined neuronal networks.
​
Neuronal network in a well
When cultured in substrates with adhesive cues, neuronal networks appear in an organized fashion, enabling to study cellular trafficking, mechanisms that require assessment of individual neurons and specific network connections. Besides this, these assays support long-term stability of cultured neurons.
​
Example
Improvement of neuronal network formation in iPSC-derived neurons cultured in patterned coverslips (round/flower shape) when compared with a culture in a common substrates [1].
NEUROMUSCLUAR JUNCTION ASSAY
Isolation of different cell types to reconstitute the in vivo organization
4Dcell technology
SmartChannel Dishes​
​
Read-outs
Synapse formation, separation of motor neuron and muscle cells environments, understanding cellular signaling and pathogenic mechanisms in neuromuscular degenerative disorders, investigation of treatments in malfunctioning neuromuscular junctions (NMJs).
​
Standard culture limitation
When grown in traditional co-culture with myotubes, motor neurons form rudimentary NMJs.
​
Neuromuscular Junction assay
This assay mimics spatial organization between motor neurons (central nervous system/spinal cord) and muscle cells (peripheral nervous system).
As motor neurons and muscle cells face very different in vivo microenvironments, culturing neurons and myoblasts in separated compartments (with neuronal or muscle cells) using 4Dcell microchannels, mimics physiological situations where only axon passes between them [1] [2].
Example
Compartmented co-cultures of glial and muscle cells added with motor neurons on microfluidic chambers [1]
