Advances in microfluidic in vitro systems for neurological disease modeling

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering
• Translational Research in Neurology

Background:

• Neurological disorders are a major global health burden, yet drug development in neurology faces high failure rates.
• Challenges include brain complexity, in vivo study limitations, and the translational gap with animal models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state of microfluidic technologies for neurological disease research.
• To discuss the benefits, challenges, and potential of integrating these technologies for novel insights.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing microfluidic-based microphysiological systems (MPS), including single cell systems and "Organ-on-chip" models.
• Developing complex 3D heterotypic cellular models like neurovascular unit mimetics.
• Advancing toward disease-specific micro-pathophysiological systems, termed "Disease-on-chip".

Main Results:

• Simplified neuronal networks provide insights into neuronal transport and neurogenesis.
• Complex models enhance understanding of metabolic coupling and blood-brain barrier transport.
• Microfluidic tools have already enabled novel insights into neurological disease mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• Microfluidic technologies offer enhanced physiological relevance for studying neurological diseases in vitro.
• These "Disease-on-chip" systems hold significant potential to overcome translational barriers in drug development.
• Integration of microfluidic technologies promises to empower future neurological disease investigations.