Thesis Project Form
Title (tentative): Development of an experimental model for culturing 3D interconnected neuronal networks coupled to Micro-Electrode Arrays| Thesis advisor(s): Massobrio Paolo, Martina Brofiga | E-mail: |
| Address: Via All'Opera Pia, 13 - 16145 Genova | Phone: (+39) 010 33 52761 |
Description
Motivation and application domain
The brain is a complex highly organized network of many different cell types synaptically connected; most of the commonly used in vitro models are too simplified and thus far from the in vivo brain. In this thesis, an innovative experimental configuration to define interconnected heterogeneous (cortical-hippocampal) neuronal cultures with a three-dimensional (3D) connectivity plated on Micro-Electrode Arrays (MEAs) will be explored.
General objectives and main activities
Goal of this project is to realize a new experimental framework to cultivate over Micro-Electrode Arrays (MEAs) 3D heterogeneous interconnected neuronal populations. The main challenge will be the realization of ad hoc structures to allow a spatial segregation as well as the communications mediated by boundle of neurites at different highs.
Training Objectives (technical/analytical tools, experimental methodologies)
- use of Micro-Electrode Arrays set-up for electrophysiological recordings
- use and testing of biocompatibile materials to realize scaffolds for neuronal assemblies
- use of matlab for the data analysis
- use and testing of biocompatibile materials to realize scaffolds for neuronal assemblies
- use of matlab for the data analysis
Place(s) where the thesis work will be carried out:
Additional information
Pre-requisite abilities/skills: Computational Neuroscience, Matlab Programming
Curriculum: Neuroengineering
Maximum number of students: 1