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Substrate Deformation Predicts Neuronal Growth Cone Advance
Ahmad I M Athamneh1, Alexander X Cartagena-Rivera2, Arvind Raman2
1Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana; Birck Nanotechnology Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana.
Biophysical Journal
|October 8, 2015
Summary
Researchers quantified retrograde traction forces in Aplysia neuronal growth cones using novel atomic force microscopy and microneedle methods. Results show forces in the 10(0)-10(2) nN range, correlating with adhesion-mediated advance.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Pulling forces in axonal growth are known but poorly understood.
- Mechanisms, magnitudes, and roles of these forces require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify retrograde traction force in Aplysia californica neuronal growth cones.
- To investigate the relationship between traction force and growth cone advance on new adhesion substrates.
Main Methods:
- Developed a novel atomic force microscope (AFM) method using an apCAM-coated microbead.
- Employed force-calibrated glass microneedles coated with apCAM ligands.
- Measured traction force by monitoring microneedle deflection via optical microscopy.
Main Results:
- Aplysia growth cones generate traction forces in the 10(0)-10(2) nN range.
- Traction force correlates with microneedle stiffness, suggesting a reinforcement mechanism.
- Microneedle deflection, not absolute force, correlates with growth cone advance.
Conclusions:
- Adhesion complexes regulate the coupling between actin cytoskeleton and substrates.
- Micron-scale elastic deformation of adhesion complexes stimulates growth cone advance.
- Findings provide insights into the biophysical mechanisms of neuronal development.
