Franziska Dorn1, Regina Lange1, Pia S. Rebmann2, Hanna Weber2, Mareike Fauser2, Ingo Barke1, Alexander Storch2, Sylvia Speller1*

1Institute of Physics, University of Rostock, 2Neurology, University Medical Center Rostock
*sylvia.speller@uni-rostock.de

Understanding the structure and behaviour of neuronal cell types adhered to substrates with molecular coating is crucial for their coupling to material surfaces, such as electrostimulation electrodes or functional framework materials.
The nanomorphology of cells can provide important insights into their function and development, also in response to the material surface. In our work, we investigate, in vitro, the surface morphology of neuronal cells, which can be broadly categorised into neural stem cells, neurons and glial cells. To distinguish these cell types, we use fluorescence staining and identify the cell types with a fluorescence microscope.
The nanomorphology of neuronal cells is measured using scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM). SICM is a non-contact scanning probe method that allows live and fixed cells to be analysed in a physiological medium without affecting their structure. This method is advantageous for the study of the cell membrane as it avoids physical contact that could alter the morphology of the cells or even trigger a response.
The aim of our research is to identify and relate nanomorphological features that are specific to the respective neuronal cell types. We hope to gain better understanding of the function and development of the different neuronal cell types, acquiring live cell morphogologies.

Figure 1. SICM surface morphology of a differentiated, matured neuron, adhered to a glass surface (fixed). Top view (left) together with 3D representation (right) is shown. Interesting features are projections, nodes, filopodia-like protrusions, ruffles, and cilium signatures.

References
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[3] M. Álvarez-Satta, L. Moreno-Cugnon, A. Matheu Ageing Research Reviews., 52 (2019), 53