Neuronal networks on MEAs – a hybrid test platform

The growth of neuronal networks on high-density MEA neurochips yields a hybrid test platform that allows the continuous and simultaneous monitoring of spike activity from a large number of cells for weeks or even months. . The advantage of label-free extracellular MEA-neurochip recording is the possibility of long-term recording from multiple sites in vitro and monitoring signal transmission in networks of hundreds to thousands of cells..

Mammalian neuronal networks can be created from primary dissociated cultures, typically from mouse or rat embryos, or from various types of neurons derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells that were generated from patient donor tissue.

Our technology toolchain allows the electrophysiological evaluation of compounds based on their ability to induce activity changes or revert pathological states in those neuronal networks grown on MEA neurochips. This is applied to disease models such as ALS, epilepsy, as well as neurotoxicity and developmental changes. The cells or supernatants can further be multiplexed with molecular assays.

NeuroProof offers screening services with its MEA reocrding assays for many applications and disease models.

High-Resolution Data Acquisition

A high-resolution data acquisition is the key to understanding complex cellular interactions. The Axion Maestro system captures and records electrical signals from neural and cardiac cells using multielectrode arrays (MEAs) with minimal noise. These arrays, typically 48 wells with 16 electrodes each, interface directly via capacitive coupling with electrically active cells to detect voltage changes across the membrane. The technology can be traced back to the pioneering efforts by Thomas et al. (1972) and the first successful recording of neuronal action potentials with MEAs (Gross et al., 1977).

The recording system digitizes the signals and uses a spike detection algorithm to identify and timestamp each action potential as a spike event based on its waveform shape. Both timestamp and waveform are stored. It also includes real-time monitoring and visualization capabilities, enabling users to observe electrical activity as heat maps, raster plots, and waveform overlays to explore signal patterns dynamically.

High Content Analysis of Spike Trains

NeuroProof has developed a tool chain for analyzing the so-called spike trains, the sequences of spikes from individual neurons over time, and the interplay within the network of connected neurons. Advanced methods are used to reveal patterns of activity, neuronal connectivity, and responses to stimuli. This analysis offers insights into the functional organization and health of neural networks, enhancing understanding of cellular communication and plasticity.

The growth of neuronal networks on high-density MEA neurochips creates a hybrid test platform that enables continuous and simultaneous monitoring of spike activity from a large number of cells for weeks or even months.