Topographical guidance of mouse neuronal cell on SiO₂ microtracks

Three different microtrack patterns were developed on SiO₂ layer deposited on a quartz wafer for the observation of topographical contact guidance of living neurons. The patterns were linear, dashed, and zigzag types. Mouse N2a neuroblastoma cells were cultured on the pattern and differentiated into neuronal cells after 4 days in the presence of dibutyryl cyclic AMP (dbcAMP) showing several neurites and growth cones. Among the three patterns, zigzag type pattern was the most effective for directional guiding of neuonal growth and motility. Two different types of growth cones - growth cone with relatively long filopodia and with large lamellipodia - were observed at the ends of axon shafts using a scanning electron microscope. Our research showed that continuous and complex pattern is more favorable for the stimulation of neuronal cell growth and motility, which will be helpful for the design and development of artificial tissues.