Impact of substrate rigidity on the connectivity and dynamics of neuronal cultures

Abstract

Neuronal cultures are powerful tools that allow for the study of a complex system such as the brain in a more controlled environment. In order to do so, the characterization of neuronal properties must be accurately studied. The main objective of this study is to describe how the rigidity of the substrate where neurons grow affects neuronal behaviour. Neurons are grown in the same conditions with alternating substrate rigidities. Stiff substrates present lower front propagation velocities than soft ones, indicating shorter axonal length. The results confirm the essential role substrate rigidity plays in shaping culture morphology and dynamics