Intracellular calcium and cyclic nucleotide levels modulate neurite guidance by microtopographical substrate features.

Micro- and nanoscale surface features have emerged as potential tools to direct neurite growth into close proximity with next generation neural prosthesis electrodes. However, the signaling events underlying the ability of growth cones to respond to topographical features remain largely unknown. Accordingly, this study probes the influence of [Ca(2+) ]i and cyclic nucleotide levels on the ability of neurites from spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) to precisely track topographical micropatterns.

Microtopographical features generated by photopolymerization recruit RhoA/ROCK through TRPV1 to direct cell and neurite growth.

Cell processes, including growth cones, respond to biophysical cues in their microenvironment to establish functional tissue architecture and intercellular networks. The mechanisms by which cells sense and translate biophysical cues into directed growth are unknown. We used photopolymerization to fabricate methacrylate platforms with patterned microtopographical features that precisely guide neurite growth and Schwann cell alignment.

Photopolymerized microfeatures for directed spiral ganglion neurite and Schwann cell growth.

Cochlear implants (CIs) provide auditory perception to individuals with severe hearing impairment. However, their ability to encode complex auditory stimuli is limited due, in part, to poor spatial resolution caused by electrical current spread in the inner ear. Directing nerve cell processes towards target electrodes may reduce the problematic current spread and improve stimulatory specificity.

Micropatterned methacrylate polymers direct spiral ganglion neurite and Schwann cell growth.

Significant advances in the functional outcomes achieved with cochlear implantation will likely require tissue-engineering approaches to improve the neural prosthesis interface. One strategy is to direct spiral ganglion neuron (SGN) axon growth in a highly organized fashion to approximate or contact stimulating electrodes. Here we assessed the ability of micropatterns induced by photopolymerization in methacrylate (MA) polymer systems to direct cultured neonatal rat SGN neurite growth and alignment of SG Schwann cells (SGSCs).

Combination 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors and alpha-blockers for treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Open or transurethral resection of the prostate was once the only option for men afflicted with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). In the past 10 to 15 years, however, medical management has become a common step in the treatment of BPH, often postponing or eliminating the need for surgical intervention. The two drug classes used in the medical management of BPH are alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors.