Affiliation:
1. Foundation for Research and Technology—Hellas (F.O.R.T.H.), Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser (I.E.S.L.), Vasilika Vouton, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
2. Department of Physics, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
Abstract
Whereas the axons of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) spontaneously regenerate after an injury, the occurring regeneration is rarely successful because axons are usually directed by inappropriate cues. Therefore, finding successful ways to guide neurite outgrowth, in vitro, is essential for neurogenesis. Microfluidic systems reflect more appropriately the in vivo environment of cells in tissues such as the normal fluid flow within the body, consistent nutrient delivery, effective waste removal, and mechanical stimulation due to fluid shear forces. At the same time, it has been well reported that topography affects neuronal outgrowth, orientation, and differentiation. In this review, we demonstrate how topography and microfluidic flow affect neuronal behavior, either separately or in synergy, and highlight the efficacy of microfluidic systems in promoting neuronal outgrowth.
Reference148 articles.
1. Effects of mechanical stimuli and microfiber-based substrate on neurite outgrowth and guidance;Kim;J. Biosci. Bioeng.,2006
2. Lanza, R., Langer, R., and Vacanti, J.P. (2013). Principles of Tissue Engineering, Elsevier. [4th ed.].
3. Evaluating neuronal and glial growth on electrospun polarized matrices: Bridging the gap in percussive spinal cord injuries;Chow;Neuron Glia Biol.,2007
4. Guidance of glial cell migration and axonal growth on electrospun nanofibers of poly-ε-caprolactone and a collagen/poly-ε-caprolactone blend;Schnell;Biomaterials,2007
5. Effect of functionalized micropatterned PLGA on guided neurite growth;Yao;Acta Biomater.,2009