AVS 45th International Symposium
    Biomaterial Interfaces Group Monday Sessions
       Session BI-MoA

Paper BI-MoA7
Neuronal Networks as the Basis for Computational Systems

Monday, November 2, 1998, 4:00 pm, Room 326

Session: Cell Solid-Surface Interactions
Presenter: J.J. Hickman, The George Washington University
Authors: J.J. Hickman, The George Washington University
M.S. Ravenscroft, The George Washington University
Correspondent: Click to Email
We are using patterned Self-Assembled Monolayers (SAMs) to control the intrinsic and geometric properties of cell culture growth surfaces to create in vitro circuits of mammalian neurons and their processes. The ability to control the surface composition as well as other variables, such as growth media and cell preparation, all play important roles in neuronal pattern viability and cell fate. The use of serum-free medium makes examination of the culture substratum possible by surface analysis as the serum-free medium contains very small amounts of protein, thus the protein on the surface arises primarily from the cells and can be related to their morphology. The surfaces have been characterized by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and imaging XPS using a FISONS 220i spectrometer and we have related the intrinsic properties of the SAM surfaces and the deposited protein layer to the neuronal cellular development. The electrophysiological signals produced by the neurons in response to artificial and spontaneous electrical stimuli has been recorded by patch-clamp electrophysiology. We are using these circuits to obtain a more fundamental understanding of neuronal circuit development as well as to develop new concepts of hybrid neuroelectric devices for biological computation applications. The continuing development of this technology by our group and other groups will be discussed, as well as the application of this technology for (a) obtaining an improved understanding of neuronal synaptic development, (b) formation of neuronal circuits, and (c) biosensor fabrication. The theory behind the creation of simple hybrid devices will also be explored.