Adhesion to Carbon Nanotube Conductive Scaffolds Forces Action-Potential Appearance in Immature Rat Spinal Neurons

PLoS ONE, 2013 · DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073621 · Published: August 12, 2013

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how carbon nanotube scaffolds affect the development of immature neurons from rat spinal cords in vitro. The researchers examined the electrophysiological properties and gene expression of these neurons when grown on carbon nanotubes. The results indicate that spinal neurons grown on conductive carbon nanotubes show accelerated development. They express functional markers of maturation, like voltage-dependent currents and action potentials, earlier than neurons grown on control substrates. Gene expression analysis suggests that carbon nanotube platforms may trigger reparative activities involving microglia, without causing reactive gliosis. This suggests potential applications for tissue scaffolds containing conductive nanotubes in neural regeneration strategies.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Neonatal Wistar rats (P1-P4)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Spinal neurons cultured on carbon nanotubes exhibit a 37% reduction in membrane capacitance, suggesting a difference in soma size and/or neurite extension.
2
Neurons grown on carbon nanotubes show an 87% increase in the probability of displaying voltage-gated currents, indicating accelerated functional maturation.
3
Gene expression analysis reveals that MWCNT substrates modulate genes involved in cell communication, taxis, chemotaxis, cell growth/differentiation, and immune-related functions.

Research Summary

The study explores the interaction between carbon nanotube scaffolds and immature spinal cord neurons in vitro. The central finding is that spinal neurons adherent to carbon nanotube substrates undergo accelerated functional maturation, characterized by an earlier appearance of voltage-dependent currents and action potentials. Gene expression analysis reveals a selective modulation of gene expression involving neuronal and non-neuronal components, suggesting that carbon nanotube platforms trigger reparative activities involving microglia, in the absence of reactive gliosis. The authors propose that carbon nanotube scaffolds may improve recovery and promote excitability of dissociated neonatal neurons, or trigger microglial reparative processes leading to accelerated neuronal maturation.

Practical Implications

Neural Regeneration Strategies

Conductive nanotubes may be blended into future tissue scaffolds to promote cell differentiation and reparative pathways.

Interface Design

Carbon nanotubes can be used in prosthesis to enhance monitoring of brain activity by altering the electrophysiological and synaptic responses of neurons.

Understanding Neuronal Development

Carbon nanotubes can affect various aspects of excitable cell function in culture and drive the functional maturation of spinal neurons regardless of synaptic contact appearance.

Study Limitations

1
The study does not establish a direct cause-effect relationship between MWCNT, gene expression, and neuronal behavior.
2
The precise mechanisms through which MWCNTs influence neuronal adhesion and subsequent signaling events remain to be fully elucidated.
3
The long-term effects of MWCNT exposure on spinal neuron function and survival were not investigated.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Neurology