Cultured neural networks: optimisation of patterned network adhesiveness and characterization of their neural activity

A 'cultured probe' is a hybrid type of neural information transducer or prosthesis, for stimulation and/or recording of neural activity in the brain or the spinal (ventral motor region or dorsal sensory region). It consists of a micro electrode array (MEA) on a planar substrate, each electrode being covered and surrounded by a local circularly confined network ('island') of cultured neurons, obtained by chemical patterning of the substrate. The purpose of the local networks of cultured cells is that they act as intermediates for collateral sprouts from the in vivo system, thus allowing for an effective and selective neuron electrode interface. As the local neural network of cortical neurons can also become spontaneously active and therefore has the principal capability of information processing, one may even envisage future applications of these intermediary networks as 'front-end' signal processors.