Neuronal Growth and Formation of Neuron Networks on Directional Surfaces

The formation of neuron networks is a process of fundamental importance for understanding the development of the nervous system and for creating biomimetic devices for tissue engineering and neural repair. The basic process that controls the network formation is the growth of an axon from the cell body and its extension towards target neurons. Axonal growth is directed by environmental stimuli that include intercellular interactions, biochemical cues, and the mechanical and geometrical properties of the growth substrate. Despite significant recent progress, the steering of the growing axon remains poorly understood. In this paper, we develop a model of axonal motility, which incorporates substrate-geometry sensing. We combine experimental data with theoretical analysis to measure the parameters that describe axonal growth on micropatterned surfaces: diffusion (cell motility) coefficients, speed and angular distributions, and cell-substrate interactions. Experiments performed on neurons treated with inhibitors for microtubules (Taxol) and actin filaments (Y-27632) indicate that cytoskeletal dynamics play a critical role in the steering mechanism. Our results demonstrate that axons follow geometrical patterns through a contact-guidance mechanism, in which geometrical patterns impart high traction forces to the growth cone. These results have important implications for bioengineering novel substrates to guide neuronal growth and promote nerve repair.

Neuron dynamics on directional surfaces

We quantify neuronal growth on substrates with controlled geometries and present a theoretical approach that describes the motion of axons.

Design and Manufacturing Process for a Ballistic Missile

Designing a ballistic missile flight depends on the mission and the stress to which the missile is subject. Missile’s requests are determined by: the organization of components; flight regime type, engine configuration and aerodynamic performance of the rocket flight. In this paper has been developed a ballistic missile with a smooth fuselage type, 10 control surfaces, 8 directional surfaces for cornering execution, 2 for maneuvers of execution to change the angle of incidence and 4 stabilizers direction. Through the technology of gluing and clamping of the shell and the use of titanium components, mass of ballistic missile presented a significant decrease in weight and a structure with high strength.