This invention describes a cell growth apparatus, particularly neuronal printed circuit board apparatus comprising an aerogel base and a pre-printed cellular growth pattern. The cellular growth pattern is comprised of combinations of layers of cellular adhesion promoting materials, cellular adhesion inhibiting materials, and/or cellular signal promoting materials. The invention further describes methods of promoting cell growth using the neuronal printed circuit board apparatus of the invention. The invention is useful for regeneration and precise guidance of cells, particularly nerve cells, when used as an implant.
