CAREER: Mechanotaxis of Axons and Neurons

University Of Maryland, College Park, College Park MD

Investigators

Abstract

The overall goal of this award is to understand at a fundamental level how neurons migrate and axons elongate as a function of the mechanical properties of the substrate. This research will be divided into three specific goals. First: measurement of neuron spreading and motility as a function of the stiffness of the substrate. Second: measurement of axon elongation, from neurite up to synapse formation, as a function of the substrate compliance. Third: tailoring of substrate compliance and chemical composition to direct axon elongation. The results of this research will yield a quantitative understanding of neuron development and axon outgrowth as a function of the mechanical properties of the substrate. The knowledge acquired in this research will allow for precise tailoring of the mechanical properties of substrates to direct the growth of axons, which could be used for axon regeneration after trauma in the peripheral and central nervous system. This award will develop educational programs at the graduate, undergraduate, and high school levels. This proposal will implement international collaborations as well. At the graduate and undergraduate level a new course on Cell Mechanics will be developed. A summer cell mechanics research program will be developed for high school students. This program will introduce high school students to the interdisciplinary field of bioengineering with specific emphasis on the effect of substrate stiffness on cell mechanics and motility. Ongoing collaborations with Mexico will allow for a one week course on cell mechanics for undergraduate students.