Abstract: A planar patch clamp device is disclosed, which can be used for culturing a neuron in the device so as to form a neuron network, and detecting an electrical property of the neuron that forms the neuron network. The planar patch clamp device includes a plurality of protrusions formed on a first surface, an extracellular matrix forming substance which is coated on the peripheries of a through hole, and electrode sections.

Abstract: Provided are a culture device for neuronal network formation that makes it possible to construct a neuronal network while restricting movement of neurons grown in the culture medium, and a means for the use thereof. A culture device for neuronal network formation in which is formed a cell fixation part surrounded by a plurality of projections on a flat substrate that can be filled with cell culture medium, and in which (1) there are established spaces having widths such that the neuron cells cannot pass through between the plurality of projections, (2) the inner diameter is such that the cell fixation part can house the cells of from one to a number of neurons, (3) the substrate surface, which is the bottom of the cell fixation part, is coated by an extracellular matrix-forming substance and/or provided with minute through-holes for suctioning culture medium by a suction device on the lower side of the substrate surface.