Nanoengineered Platforms for Neuronal Regeneration

The ability to manipulate neuronal motility and growth has extensive implications in neuronal regeneration and tissue engineering. In this talk I will present our recent studies of neuonal interactions with 2D and 3D platforms for directing neuronal growth. As physical mechanical forces play a key role in neuronal morphogenesis, we used magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) as mediators to apply forces locally on neurons throughout their migration. Following incubation, MNPs accumulated in the cells, turning the cells sensitive to magnetic stimulation. Then, we applied magnetic fields with controlled magnetic flux densities at multiple scales of size and strength. Plating the cells atop a magnetic micropatterned device has led to an organized network of cell clusters. Next, we used the ability to control MNP movement to shape the extracellular environment of the cells. We mixed MNPs in collagen hydrogel and applied external magnetic field during the gelation period, aligning the MNPs and the collagen fibers. As neurons rely on physical topographical elements, neurons embedded within the aligned gel demonstrated polarized growth pattern. We examined this platform for bridging gaps efficiently post trauma in vivo. Our study presents an emerging magneto-chemical approach for promoting neuronal growth and repair.