Mechanical Response of Rat Cortical Neurons: AFM Indentations and Preliminary Modeling

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) due to blast exposure is becoming increasingly prevalent in soldiers returning from war and some consider TBI to be the signature wound of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts [1]. Common causes are exposure to explosions of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), rocket-propelled grenades, and landmines. A study by Hoge et al found that of 2525 soldiers, 4.9% reported injuries with loss of consciousness and an additional 10.3% reported injuries with altered mental status [2]. Despite the prevalence of TBI, little is known on the epidemiology of mild TBI and on its long-term health consequences. An improved understanding of the damage mechanism and injury progression will be critical for designing better protective gear and selecting appropriate treatments.