Development of biocompatible parylene neurocages.

We present a refined method and design for building parylene neurocages for in vitro studies of live neural networks. Parylene neurocages are biocompatible and very robust, making them ideally suited for studying the synaptic connections between individual neurons to gain insight into learning and memory. The neurocage fabrication process is significantly less complex than earlier versions. Previous neurocage designs achieved limited neuronal outgrowth; however, the long-term cell survival rate was <25%. The incorporation of new materials and different anchoring techniques, in addition to some design modifications, as outlined here, have improved the long-term cell survival rate to >50%.