neuron – TechConnect Briefs

The mechanical sensitivity of vesicle dynamics in in vivo and in vitro neurons

Ahmed W., Li T., Rubakhin S., Chiba A., Sweedler J., Saif T.A., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, US

To study the mechanical response of both in vivo and in vitro neurons, we have developed a novel platform for in-situ high-resolution live-imaging of cells and tissues under applied mechanical strain. The system is capable [...]

Integration of Living Cells with Silicon Microstructures for MEMS Applications

Molnar P., Bhargava N., Das M., Natarajan A., Wilson K., Hickman J.J., University of Central Florida, US

For many years biological and silicon-based structures were considered incompatible because of the difficulties to engineer an effective interface connecting the two systems. Recent developments in surface chemistry, bioengineering and cell biology enabled the creation [...]

Quantum Dot Probes for Tracking Nerve Growth Factor Ligand-Receptor Dynamics in Live Neurons

Sundara Rajan S., Vu T.Q., Oregon Health and Science University, US

The mechanisms by which cell-surface receptors interact with their specific ligands to initiate signaling cascades is a dynamic process which involves ligand-receptor binding, transport, and clearance across and within the cell plasma membrane. Nerve growth [...]

Guided Neurite Growth on Patterned Carbon Nanotubes

Zhang X., Prasad S., Niyogi S., Ozkan C.S., Ozkan M., Ozkan C.S., Ozkan M., University of California Riverside, US

Nanomaterials substrates are suitable for functioning as cell scaffolds. Promotion of axonal growth and support for long distance regeneration are the two requirements in the various experimental strategies for spinal cord repair. Organic systems’ performance [...]