| Adhesion plays a fundamental role in function and development of all multi-cellular organisms. Recent evidence suggests that integrin mediated adhesion of neurons has an immediate effect on electrophysiology. Common approaches for studying adhesion lack real-time capabilities, require sample destruction and are very difficult to couple to electrophysiological measurements. In this study, a novel microsensor platform was designed and developed for simultaneous, quantitative, real-time monitoring of integrin mediated adhesion and electrophysiology of primary neurons in vitro. The proposed technology combines micro-acoustic sensors capable of tracking changes in mechanics of the adhering neuronal layer and microelectrode arrays for recording extracellular unit activity. The first part of the project involved probing the exact events and cell components involved in the adhesion measured by the acoustic sensors. This is followed by theoretical considerations and finite element modeling, design and analysis of microsensor operation in aqueous environments. The third part involves the manufacturing and incorporation of the sensor on a lab-on-a-chip type platform and evaluating sensor stability and performance.;In addition, modulating surface roughness with carbon nanotubes drives adhering neurons to exhibit action potentials as early as four days in culture. Overall, this work present a unique biochip that can enable novel insights into the relationship between integrin adhesion and changes in electrical properties of neurons, ultimately aiding in answering questions about mechanisms that govern the structural and electrophysiology aspects of neuronal plasticity. |
