Microstructures for studies of cultured neural networks

A description is given of a functional silicon micromachined device that pe rmits non-invasive, bidirectional, highly specific communication with cultu red mammalian neurons. The heart of the system is a well structure that hol ds the cell in close proximity to a metal extracellular electrode while per mitting normal outgrowth of axons and dendrites. An iterative approach is u sed to create a design that allows normal growth of the neurons while preve nting their escape. An array of 16 such neurowells makes it possible to per form studies of biological neural network development and function with unp recedented detail.