Description Parkinsons disease manifests when the brain cells that make the neurotransmitter dopamine begin to die off. Dopamine is essential for the control of movement, and without it even the simplest daily activities can become very challenging.The replacement of dopamine neurons is emerging as a promising therapy for Parkinson's disease. Sur and his colleagues in the Stupp Laboratory are working to regrow dopamine neurons in an artificial matrix environment, which can then be transplanted into the Parkinsonian brain.In this image, the neurons from a mouse embryo have been encapsulated in a nanofiber matrix (vertical cylinder), and then allowed to grow embedded in a block of collagen gel. After a few days of culture, these neurons (blue lines) grew out of the nanofiber matrix into the surrounding collagen gel.Technique: Confocal microscopy, false coloring
Science In Society Northwestern University's Recent Work
About the artist
Science In Society Northwestern University Member Since November 2013 Artist Statement Science in Society is a Northwestern University research center dedicated to science outreach and public engagement.
These images stem from cutting-edge research on campus, winning our annual Scientific Images Contest which goes on display in galleries across Chicago.
Through partnerships with schools and community groups, we train Northwestern researchers to share their expertise and creativity in a community centered way. Sales from these images goes to support our education and outreach activities, connecting researchers to the wider community.