AVS 49th International Symposium
    Biomaterials Wednesday Sessions
       Session BI-WeP

Paper BI-WeP6
Patterned Construction of Three-dimensional Neuronal Networks Using Ink Jet Directed Layer-by-Layer Deposition

Wednesday, November 6, 2002, 11:00 am, Room Exhibit Hall B2

Session: Biointerfaces and Surfaces II
Presenter: T. Xu, Clemson University
Authors: T. Xu, Clemson University
M. Das, Clemson University
J. Hickman, Clemson University
T. Boland, Clemson University
Correspondent: Click to Email
The ability of building three-dimensional constructs for tissue engineering applications has many obvious advantages. In particular, the outgrowth and regeneration of neurons depend on a three dimensional matrix of growth factors. We present here the use of an inkjet-based system to generate three-dimensional patterns for directing neuron growth. Using a home built inkjet printing system, a mixture of collagen and poly-D-lysine was printed with a pre-designed pattern onto a glass surface that was pretreated with agarose. Primary rat E18 hippocampal neurons were cultured on the surface and allowed to attach to the pattern. After 24h incubation, a second layer of the mixture of collagen and poly-D-lysine was printed on the surface. The hippocampal neurons were again seeded on the surface and allowed to form a second layer. This was achieved by a fixing and locking mechanism built into the printer. Communication between the different layers of the hippocampal neurons was tested and results of electrophysiological tests will be presented. The layer-by-layer approach proved successful in 3D network design and may have many other applications in tissue engineering applications.