In Vitro Neuronal Networks from 2D to 3D

Bernstein Conference Satellite Workshop No. 8

September 14, 2015, 9:00 - 18:30

Click here to download the PDF program.

Organized by

Jari Hyttinen and Jarno Tanskanen
Computational Biophysics and Imaging Group
Department of Electronics and Communications Engineering
Tampere University of Technology, BioMediTech
Finland

Venue

Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, Neue Universität
Universitätsplatz, Grabengasse 3-5, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany

More Information and Registration

http://www.bernstein-conference.de/

A B S T R A C T

Our view is that the biological and computational components and the concepts of realized BIO-ICT interactions have lacked so far the complexity of the actual high level biological neural systems. There are three key features that are needed for biological computational neuronal networks: 1. 3D structures of neuronal cells and networks, 2. interactions between various types of neuronal cells, and finally, structured and patterned 2D and 3D structures of neuronal networks.

The goal of the workshop is to provide insight into novel technologies and recent research results regarding in vitro neuronal networks. We aim to present the very latest of the developments in the 3D electrophysiological microelectrode array measurement technology, 3D cell culture technology, and astrocytic neuronal networks, along with the associated electrophysiological signal analysis and network modeling methods.

The content of the workshop is built heavily on the final outcomes of the EU FP7 FET project 3DNeuroN - Biomimiking the brain - towards 3D neuronal network dynamics (http://www.3dneuron.eu/). In this project, we have constructed in silico and in vitro models of 2D and 3D neuronal networks with biomaterials and multi-cell-type neuronal structures derived, e.g., from human stem cells. Also novel 2D and 3D electrode arrays were developed to study neuronal networks and their responses in different network topologies and dynamics. Thus the work is based on cellular, biointerface, bioelectronics, and ICT technology. Novel stem cell and biomimetic technologies provide us a way to grow different human neuronal cell types for 3D neuronal networks. Novel biomaterials, microelectronics, and in silico modeling has provided insight into functional dynamics of the constructs.

The beginning of the era of brain-like 3D in vitro cultures is now here. In the near future, we expect to see a transition from traditional 2D cultures to 3D cultures, and understand the roles of astrocytes in neuronal networks, which will enable us to study our brains in a more natural setting and provide enhanced possibilities for creating neuronal system spare parts for humans, as well as for drug development and toxicology models. For this we now need to create and perfect the 3D measurement technologies and cell culturing methods. Our in vitro and in silico technologies provide a starting point to study the organization and functioning of the 3D neuronal networks, and a basis to develop clinical applications.

The 3DNeuroN project has received funding from the European Union’s Seventh Framework Programme, Future and Emerging Technologies, grant agreement n°296590.

P R O G R A M

Welcome & Introduction to 3D in Vitro Technologies - Case: 3DNeuroN
Jari Hyttinen, Tampere University of Technology

Session 1: 3D and Controlled Culturing of Neuronal Networks

3D Neural Networks in Engineered Hydrogel Matrices
Nicolas Broguiere, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich

Forming Neuron Networks with Controlled Topology in 2D and 3D
Janos Vörös, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich

Session 2: Neuronal-astrocytic Networks and their Modeling

Role of Astrocytes in Formation of Functional Neuronal Networks in Vitro
Susanna Narkilahti, University of Tampere

Computational Modeling of Neuronal-astrocytic Networks
Kerstin Lenk, Tampere University of Technology

Session 3: Technology

Signal Acquisition and Measurement System for Neural Networks in Vitro
Peter Husar, Ilmenau University of Technology

Technology and Material Developments for 3D Multielectrode Arrays
Heike Bartsch, Ilmenau University of Technology

Microbioreactor Designs with Integrated 3D MEA Devices for Cultivation of Neuronal Cells
Andreas Schober, Ilmenau University of Technology

Session 4: Stimulation, Analysis, and 3D Network Modeling

Investigation of Cultured Neuronal Networks and their Dynamics Induced by Novel Stimulation Paradigms
Peter Husar, Fraunhofer IDMT

Signal Analysis Methods for Neuronal Microelectrode Array Data
Jarno Tanskanen, Tampere University of Technology

Computational Modeling from 2D to 3D Networks
Kerstin Lenk, Tampere University of Technology

Panel Discussion: From 2D to 3D

Closing of the Workshop
Jari Hyttinen, Tampere University of Technology

(Coffee and lunch breaks not indicated.)

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