Astrocyte Interactions With Ti₃C₂T _x MXene Flakes: Insights Into Viability, Morphology, and Functionality.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Astrocytes are crucial glial cells regulating neuronal function and are potential therapeutic targets.
• Two-dimensional MXenes, like titanium carbide (Ti₃C₂T_x), offer promise for neural interfaces due to their electrochemical properties.
• The compatibility of MXenes with glial cells, specifically astrocytes, remains largely unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically evaluate the interaction between astrocytes and titanium carbide (Ti₃C₂T_x) MXenes.
• To assess the biocompatibility and cellular effects of Ti₃C₂T_x on primary cortical astrocytes.
• To lay the groundwork for utilizing MXenes in neural interfaces and astrocyte-targeted neuromodulation.

Main Methods:

• Cortical rat astrocytes were exposed to varying concentrations of Ti₃C₂T_x in aqueous dispersions.
• Phase contrast and scanning electron microscopy were used to visualize astrocyte-MXene interactions.
• Cytotoxicity assays, morphological analysis, and calcium imaging were performed to assess cellular responses.

Main Results:

• Ti₃C₂T_x MXenes were observed on astrocyte membranes as individual flakes and aggregates without causing detectable damage.
• Astrocyte viability and cell structure remained unaffected, as confirmed by cytotoxicity assays and morphological analysis.
• No significant changes in spontaneous calcium (Ca²⁺) activity were detected in Ti₃C₂T_x-treated astrocytes compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Ti₃C₂T_x demonstrates excellent biocompatibility with astrocytes, showing no adverse effects on cell viability or function.
• These findings support the potential integration of Ti₃C₂T_x MXenes into advanced neural interfaces.
• Further research is warranted to explore MXene-based tools for astrocyte-specific neuromodulation and therapeutic applications.