Novel Platform for Living Neural Networks

描述（申请人提供）：解开神经生长的机制，理解和交流是许多退行性疾病的治疗和治疗，以及神经假体和受损神经连接的修复所需要的。活体神经网络（LNN）可以为神经研究提供广泛的新工具。此外，LNNs能够检测到微小的环境扰动，是化学和生物传感的一个有吸引力的目标。然而，生产可靠的LNNs具有挑战性，需要控制神经元的生长和突触连接的形成、高电荷密度、高分辨率神经元接触、整体生物相容性和可重复性。目前还没有满足这些要求的lnn衬底。为了抓住这个机会，我们提出使用自组织纳米多孔氧化铝陶瓷作为LNNs的引导生长和界面的平台。创新的核心是几个想法的结合：阳极氧化铝的纳米工程提供定制的神经元/衬底界面；神经生长引导模式的混合微加工采用封装的纳米电极阵列，并将激发/响应信号路由到芯片底部，为神经元提供高分辨率的软电接触。所提出的活体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.