Drs. Gary Banker and Bruce Patton are exploring the application of nanotechnology-the technology used in the semiconductor industry to make computer chips-to study how growing nerve fibers interact with physical and chemical features in their environment. The goal is to produce interactions between living nerve cells and silicon chips bearing microelectronic circuits, leading to the development of neural prosthetic devices that could restore function of damaged nerves or damaged brain tissue. One of the key challenges in this work is to adapt nanofabrication methods to allow patterning of proteins, including the proteins that guide growing axons, without destroying their biological activity. In 2002, these investigators developed a novel two-step approach that allows formation of accurate patterns while preserving protein function. They have gone on to show that, by preparing patterns combining two different guidance proteins, the growth of axons and dendrites can be controlled independently. This project, which involves collaborations with scientists at Cornell University, is part of one of ten Science and Technology Centers in the country funded by the National Science Foundation to encourage technology transfer and innovative approaches to interdisciplinary activities.