Berlin 2005 – wissenschaftliches Programm

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AKB: Biologische Physik

AKB 100: Poster Session I

AKB 100.52: Poster

Samstag, 5. März 2005, 16:45–18:45, Poster TU D

Automated optical neuron guidance — •Björn Stuhrmann, Timo Betz, Allen Ehrlicher, Michael Gögler, Daniel Koch, and Josef Käs — Institute for Soft Matter Physics, Universität Leipzig, Linnéstr. 5, 04103 Leipzig

We have used a tightly focused near-infrared laser beam positioned at specific locations of actively advancing neuronal growth cones to influence important elements of neuronal growth such as the direction taken by a growth cone [Ehrlicher et al. No-dqGuiding neuronal growth with lightNo-dq PNAS (2002)] and the contact between growth cones and cell bodies of other nerve cells. Automation of our technique for a careful systematic investigation of the phenomenon is achieved with self-written image processing software. This software is able to react to cell morphological changes with automated, well defined adjustment of laser radiation with high time resolution. The aforementioned optically controlled elements of neuronal growth are essential for the in vitro creation of topologically defined neuronal networks. We are combining optical neuron guidance with established surface patterning techniques. While biochemical patterning reliably restricts neuronal growth to defined tracks, optical guidance will determine growth directions at track crossing points and precisely lead a growth cone to its target. Optical neuron guidance is a promising tool for the creation of defined neuronal networks as assays for the elucidation of interneuronal communication.