AVS 49th International Symposium
    Biomaterials Tuesday Sessions
       Session BI-TuP

Paper BI-TuP15
Reflex Arc on a Chip - Directed Neuron Growth

Tuesday, November 5, 2002, 5:30 pm, Room Exhibit Hall B2

Session: Biointerfaces and Surfaces I
Presenter: M. Poeta, Clemson University
Authors: M. Poeta, Clemson University
G. Jacob, Clemson University
M. Das, Clemson University
P. Molnar, Clemson University
J. Hickman, Clemson University
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The reflex arc is one of the simplest controls systems in the body. Yet it rivals the most complex man-made systems in complexity. The reflex arc is a controls loop consisting of a muscle fiber innervated by a motoneuron. A dorsal root ganglion (DRG) innervates both cells, completing the loop and providing feedback. Our group will look at building this system on a Micro Electrical Mechanical System (MEMS) chip. Currently, we are investigating the directed growth of motoneurons on substrates. We have created patterns of Self Assembled Monolayers (SAMs) on glass cover slips. The patterns have two geometric variables: somal (cell body) adhesion site diameter and axon (signal sending process) track width. The patterns are made of diethylenetriamine (DETA), a SAM cytophilic to motoneurons. The cover slips were then backfilled with tridecafluoro-1,1,2,2-tetrahydrooctal-1-trichlorosilane (13F), a SAM cytophobic to motoneuron growth. Photolithographic techniques are used to create the patterns. We are determining the geometric parameters (somal adhesion site diameter, axon track width) that are most conducive to motoneuron growth. We also will present electrophysiological characteristics of the motoneurons and relate changes in electrical activity to parameters in the neuron local environment.