Driving neuronal network connectivity with a modular alginate mask

The engineering and modelling of neuronal networks are aimed at understanding the complex mechanisms of communication and the development of the central nervous system. Conventional modelling methods deal with the building of networks with a preprogrammed and unalterable structure and, although they offer good reproducibility, they have limitations to mimic dynamical changes we observe in vivo. This work aims at engineering a neuronal network following a topology through the design and development of a biopolymeric mask with controlled and modular geometry