Experimental Platform to Study Spiking Pattern Propagation in Modular Networks In Vitro

The structured organization of connectivity in neural networks is associated with highly efficient information propagation and processing in the brain, in contrast with disordered homogeneous network architectures. Using microfluidic methods, we engineered modular networks of cultures using dissociated cells with unidirectional synaptic connections formed by asymmetric microchannels. The complexity of the microchannel geometry defined the strength of the synaptic connectivity and the properties of spiking activity propagation. In this study, we developed an experimental platform to study the effects of synaptic plasticity on a network level with predefined locations of unidirectionally connected cellular assemblies using multisite extracellular electrophysiology.

Automated summary

Using microfluidic methods, we created modular networks with unidirectional synaptic connections to study the effects of synaptic plasticity on cellular assemblies. The complexity of microchannel geometry was found to define the strength of synaptic connectivity and properties of activity propagation. This study demonstrated the importance of structured organization in neural networks for efficient information processing.