Neurovascular unit on a chip: implications for translational applications.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biotechnology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is crucial for brain function but difficult to study in vivo.
• Existing in vitro models lack key cellular components and predictive power for drug efficacy and toxicity.
• Current models fail to adequately represent the complex interactions within the neurovascular unit.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a 3D, multicompartment microphysiological system modeling the human brain's neurovascular unit.
• To recapitulate all three critical brain barriers: blood-brain, brain-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and blood-CSF.
• To enable the study of neurovascular interactions, drug transport, and disease mechanisms.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing innovative microfluidics and organotypic microphysiological systems.
• Incorporating primary and stem cell-derived human cells, including neurons, glia, and immune cells.
• Integrating a blood-surrogate supply, venous return, and choroid plexus for realistic simulation.

Main Results:

• The system successfully models key brain barriers and cellular interactions.
• Demonstrates potential for studying chemical communication, molecular trafficking, and inflammation.
• Initial use of Cytomegalovirus models BBB-regulated infections.

Conclusions:

• This novel platform offers a more accurate in vitro model of the human brain.
• It has the potential to advance drug discovery, personalized medicine, and understanding of neurological diseases.
• The technology will enable targeted interventions for chronic diseases and acute injuries, and identify drug adverse effects.