Developing neurons form new network connections by extending processes (neurites) that give rise to dendrites and axons, and, eventually, functional synapses. Neurite outgrowth is a fundamental aspect of both neuronal development and regeneration after injury and is needed for normal neuronal function and plasticity. Neurotoxins, whether derived from the environment or generated within the brain through altered metabolism or disease processes, can interfere with neurite development or maintenance, leading to impaired neuronal connectivity and function. Measuring a molecule’s impact on neurite outgrowth in vitro is an effective way to reveal its neuroprotective, neurodegenerative, or neurotoxic properties before it is introduced in a living organism. Therefore, robust assays that enable accurate and reproducible quantification of neurite outgrowth can be applied to neurotoxicity screening, and to the evaluation of candidate therapeutics that aim to counteract the effect of damaging mutations or toxic exposures. By applying known neurotoxins and neuroprotectants to primary rodent neurons, we are developing in vitro assays that can be reliably utilized for this purpose.

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