Peripheral neuron survival and outgrowth on graphene

TL;DR

This study investigates how graphene influences peripheral neuron survival and growth, showing enhanced neurite extension in PC12 cells and healthy axonal networks in primary neurons, suggesting graphene's potential in neuroregenerative applications.

Contribution

The paper provides the first detailed analysis of peripheral neuron interactions with graphene, demonstrating its biocompatibility and positive effects on neurite outgrowth.

Findings

Increased neurite length in PC12 cells on graphene (up to 35%)

DRG neurons survive and form dense axonal networks on graphene

Graphene is cytocompatible with peripheral neurons

Abstract

Graphene displays properties which make it appealing for neuroregenerative medicine, yet its interaction with peripheral neurons has been scarcely investigated. Here, we culture on graphene two established models for peripheral neurons: PC12 cells and DRG primary neurons. We perform a nano-resolved analysis of polymeric coatings on graphene and combine optical microscopy and viability assays to assess the material cytocompatibility and influence on differentiation. We find that differentiated PC12 cells display a remarkably increased neurite length on graphene (up to 35%) with respect to controls. DRG primary neurons survive both on bare and coated graphene and present dense axonal networks.