AXONAL RESPONSE TO CHEMOTROPIC GRADIENTS

摘要

In one aspect, the present invention provides an assay for the characterization of axon-growth guidance properties of a molecule comprising: e) preparing a three-dimensional collagen substrate; f) forming a concentration gradient of the molecule into the collage substrate; g) exposing the axon to the concentration gradient formed in the collagen substrate; and h) measuring a change in axon size, texture and/or shape; wherein the collagen substrate has a thickness to length ratio adjusted to stabilize the concentration gradient for a period of time sufficient to induce a change in the axon size, texture and/or shape.