Identifying Compound-Specific Effects on Neurite Outgrowth

Neurite outgrowth is a commonly used assay to study neuronal development and neuronal degeneration in vitro. Development of neurites requires a complex interplay of both extracellular and intracellular signals. The growth of neurites can be stimulated or inhibited by neurotrophic factors. Importantly, the development of neurons can be affected by neurotoxic chemicals.