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Author Spotlight: A Personalized Approach Towards Investigating Alzheimer's Disease Using an In Vitro Blood-Brain Barrier Model
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Dynamic 3D On-Chip BBB Model Design, Development, and Applications in Neurological Diseases
Xingchi Chen1,2, Chang Liu1, Laureana Muok1
1Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA.
Cells
|November 27, 2021
Summary
Developing advanced in vitro blood-brain barrier (BBB) models using microfluidics and human stem cells is crucial. These models enhance neuroscience research and drug screening for neurological disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Stem Cell Biology
Background:
- The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is essential for central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis.
- BBB dysfunction is linked to neurological disorders and neurodegeneration.
- Current in vitro models lack physiological relevance and efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the development of microfluidics platforms for in vitro BBB models.
- To focus on human stem cell-derived BBB models.
- To discuss various in vitro model developments for improved neuroscience research.
Main Methods:
- Review of microfluidics platforms in neuroscience.
- Characterization of human stem cell-derived in vitro BBB models.
- Discussion of diverse in vitro BBB model development strategies.
Main Results:
- Microfluidics platforms offer enhanced control and relevance for BBB modeling.
- Human stem cell-derived models show promise for mimicking the native BBB.
- Various in vitro models are being developed to meet research demands.
Conclusions:
- Microfluidics-based BBB-on-chip models represent a significant advancement.
- These models facilitate high-throughput drug screening and targeted delivery research.
- Development of physiologically relevant in vitro BBB models is critical for advancing neurological therapies.

