Novel Platform for Living Neural Networks

描述（由申请人提供）：许多退行性疾病的治疗以及神经假体和受损神经连接的恢复都需要解锁神经生长理解和交流机制。活神经网络（LNN）可以为神经研究提供广泛的新工具。此外，LNN能够检测微小的环境扰动，是化学和生物传感的有吸引力的目标。然而，产生可靠的LNN是具有挑战性的，并且需要控制神经元生长和突触连接的形成、高电荷密度高分辨率神经元接触、整体生物相容性和再现性。满足这些要求的LNN基质不可用。为了解决这个问题，我们建议使用自组织的纳米多孔氧化铝陶瓷作为引导生长和界面LNN的平台。创新的核心是几个想法的结合：阳极氧化铝的纳米工程，以提供定制的神经元/基底界面;用于神经生长指导的图案的混合微加工;使用封装的纳米电极阵列并将激励/响应信号路由到芯片的底部，以提供与神经元的软高分辨率电接触。提出的活神经网络具有巨大的商业潜力。如果实现，它们可以用作神经网络研究，疾病研究和诊断，药物和毒素筛选以及新一代生化传感器的工具。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Unlocking the mechanism of neural growth understanding and communication is needed for and treatment of many degenerative diseases, as well as for neural prosthesis and restoration of damaged neural connections. Living neural networks (LNN) can enable a broad array of new tools for neural research. Furthermore, LNNs, being capable of detect minute environmental perturbations, are an attractive target for chemical and biological sensing. However, producing reliable LNNs is challenging, and requires control over the neuronal growth and formation of synaptic junctions, high charge density high-resolution neuronal contacts, overall biocompatibility and reproducibility. Substrates for LNNs that would satisfy these requirements are not available. To address this opportunity we propose to use self-organized nanoporous alumina ceramic as a platform for guided growth and interfacing of LNNs. The core of the innovation is in the combination of several ideas: nanoengineering of the anodic alumina to provide tailored neuron/substrate interface; hybrid micro machining of patterns for neural growth guidance; using encapsulated nanoelectrodes arrays and routing the excitation/response signals to the bottom of the chip to provide soft high resolution electrical contacts to neurons. Proposed living neural networks have significant commercial potential. If realized, they could be used as tools for neural network research, disease studies and diagnostics, drug and toxin screening, and new generation of biochemical sensors.