axon guidance using microfluidic devices

Axon Guidance Using Microfluidic DevicesMadelyn S. Luttgen Mentor: Dr. Noo Li Jeon

http://nljgroup.eng.uci.edu/, www.calit2.net

10 nM Nogo

100 nM Nogo

Control

Map 5 Fluorescence

Gradient device will allow for easier

detection of Nogo activity and new

experiments concerning axon

guidance

In the CNS, axons do not regenerate after injury

Nature Reviews Drug Discovery 2; 872-879 (2003); doi:10.1038/nrd1228

Myelin proteins MAG,

Omgp, and Nogo bind to

the same receptor to inhibit axon

regeneration

CNTL 1 10 100 500 10000

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40

60

80

100

Ax

on

le

ng

th (

% o

f C

on

tro

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Concentration of NOGO (nM)

Data Summary

Fabricated devices have a 150 micrometer ladder like groove region surrounded by two 1.5

millimeter channels. The cells are loaded into one side and the axons will extend through the

microgroove region into the other channel.

This research examines the activity of the Nogo protein. To replicate central nervous system injury, different concentrations of Nogo are

added to individual devices after the axons are cut, and single axon regrowth can be directly

measured.