Specialists from the Kofkin Faculty of Engineering at Bar-Ilan University (Israel) have developed a microscopic magnet capable of regenerating nerve cells destroyed after degenerative diseases or injuries. The technology created by Prof. Orit Shefi and PhD student Rector Plen will be able to create 3D cellular architecture at an individual scale.
To create neural networks, scientists implanted microscopic particles of iron oxide into protoneurons. As a result, the cells became independent magnetic units. Next, the researchers influenced the protoneurons with several pre-configured magnetic fields and remotely directed their movement in a three-dimensional and multi-layered collagen substrate that mimics the natural characteristics of human tissues. All of these processes resulted in a three-dimensional "mini-brain", that is, functional and multi-layered networks of neurons that mimic elements found in mammalian brain tissue.
When the collagen solution reformatted into a gel, the cells remained in place according to the remotely applied magnetic fields. Within days, they matured into true neurons and even formed outgrowths and connections, showed electrical activity, and thrived in collagen at a distance of three weeks.
To create neural networks, scientists implanted microscopic particles of iron oxide into protoneurons. As a result, the cells became independent magnetic units. Next, the researchers influenced the protoneurons with several pre-configured magnetic fields and remotely directed their movement in a three-dimensional and multi-layered collagen substrate that mimics the natural characteristics of human tissues. All of these processes resulted in a three-dimensional "mini-brain", that is, functional and multi-layered networks of neurons that mimic elements found in mammalian brain tissue.
When the collagen solution reformatted into a gel, the cells remained in place according to the remotely applied magnetic fields. Within days, they matured into true neurons and even formed outgrowths and connections, showed electrical activity, and thrived in collagen at a distance of three weeks.
Login or register to post comments
Comments 0