Receptor-mediated recognition of substrate molecules is a prerequisite for
nerve cells in order to find their target structures in vivo and leads to f
ormation of neuronal connections and networks. In order to study these mech
anisms under in vitro conditions, we cultured embryonic hippocampal neurons
or neuronal cell lines, SH-SY5Y and PCC7-PCC7-Mz1, onto biofunctionalized
surfaces. Micropatterning on polymer surfaces, glass- and silicone-oxide-ba
sed chip materials was performed in a micrometer range by microcontact prin
ting using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) stamps. Hippocampal neurons were fou
nd to form networks on chip surfaces under serum-free conditions and remain
ed functional for more than a week. Human neuroblastoma cells SH-SY5Y as we
ll as PCC7-Mz1 stem cells were found to follow microcontact printed pattern
on polystyrene surfaces. Both cell lines showed neuronal marker expression
and were cultured for up to 7 days with serum containing culture medium. W
idths of 3-5 mu m of coating lines were found to enhance single cell spread
ing along the pattern. The techniques described in this study may be useful
in promoting nerve cell regeneration and organization following transectio
n due to trauma or surgery. The neuronal alignment and network formation in
vitro may furthermore serve as a model system in the field of biosensors.
(C) 1999 Kluwer Academic Publishers.