Cultures of neurons on micro-electrode array in hybrid retinal implant

When developing a visual prosthesis a "hybrid retinal implant", we have focused on culturing neurons on a stimulation multi-electrode dish (MED). After the dorsal root ganglions were dissociated in order to obtain neurons, the concentration gradient of a neurotrophic factor was tested for whether it guides the neurites of neurons. Experimental results suggested that neurons could extend their neurites on the MED. Although the NGF facilitates the axonal growth, it failed to guide neurites toward a certain direction.