Using microfluidic chip to form brain-derived neurotrophic factor concentration gradient for studying neuron axon guidance

摘要

Molecular gradients play a significant role in regulating biological and pathological processes. Although conventional gradient-generators have been used for studying chemotaxis and axon guidance, there are still many limitations, including the inability to maintain stable tempo-spatial gradients and the lack of the cell monitoring in a real-time manner. To overcome these shortcomings, microfluidic devices have been developed. In this study, we developed a microfluidic gradient device for regulating neuron axon guidance. A microfluidic device enables the generation of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gradient profiles in a temporal and spatial manner. We test the effect of the gradient profiles on axon guidance, in the BDNF concentration gradient axon towards the high concentration gradient. This microfluidic gradient device could be used as a powerful tool for cell biology research.