- Microfluidic separation of axonal and somal compartments of neural progenitor cells differentiated in a 3D matrix.
Microfluidic separation of axonal and somal compartments of neural progenitor cells differentiated in a 3D matrix.
STAR protocols (2022-01-22)
Madhura S Lotlikar, Marina B Tarantino, Mehdi Jorfi, Dora M Kovacs, Rudolph E Tanzi, Raja Bhattacharyya
PMID35059649
ABSTRACT
This protocol describes the differentiation of human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs) in a microfluidic device containing a thin 3D matrix with two separate chambers, enabling a cleaner separation between axons and soma/bulk neurons. We have used this technique to study how mitochondria-associated ER membranes (MAMs) regulate the generation of somal and axonal amyloid β (Aβ) in FAD hNPCs, a cellular model of Alzheimer's disease. This protocol also details the quantification of Aβ molecules and isolation of pure axons via axotomy. For complete details on the use and execution of this profile, please refer to Bhattacharyya et al. (2021).