Stretchable Mesh Nanoelectronics for 3D Single-Cell Chronic Electrophysiology from Developing Brain Organoids

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Stem Cell Biology

Background:

• Human induced pluripotent stem cell derived brain organoids are valuable tools for studying brain development and neurological disorders.
• Current measurement techniques lack long-term stable 3D bioelectrical interfaces for developing brain organoids.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel platform for long-term, stable electrical recording of developing brain organoids.
• To overcome limitations of existing measurement techniques for brain organoid bioelectrical activity.

Main Methods:

• A cyborg brain organoid platform integrating "tissue-like" stretchable mesh nanoelectronics.
• Nanoelectronics designed to match brain organoid mechanical properties and integrate via organogenesis.
• Distribution of stretchable electrode arrays across 3D brain organoids.

Main Results:

• The integrated stretchable electrode arrays did not interrupt brain organoid development.
• The system adapted to volume and morphological changes during organoid organogenesis.
• Long-term stable electrical contacts with neurons enabled continuous recording and captured action potentials.

Conclusions:

• The cyborg brain organoid platform provides a seamless, noninvasive bioelectrical interface.
• This technology enables long-term, continuous monitoring of neuronal activity during brain organoid development.
• Facilitates the study of emergent electrical properties in developing brain organoids.