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3D Functional Neuronal Networks in Free-Standing Bioprinted Hydrogel Constructs
Yue Yao1,2, Harold A Coleman3, Laurence Meagher1,4
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
Advanced Healthcare Materials
|June 27, 2023
Summary
Researchers bioprinted 3D neural constructs using soft biomaterials to mimic brain architecture. This novel approach enables the study of neural networks and offers potential for neuromorphic engineering and drug screening.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- The brain's extracellular matrix is crucial for its structure and function.
- Existing in vitro models struggle to replicate complex brain architectures.
- Soft biomaterials are essential for mimicking 3D neural microenvironments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a bioprinting method for creating 3D neuronal constructs.
- To mimic sophisticated brain architectures in vitro.
- To establish a platform for studying neural networks and their functions.
Main Methods:
- Cortical neurons and astrocytes were isolated from rat brains.
- A multi-bioink approach was used to bioprint cellular and acellular strands in a hydrogel.
- Immunohistochemistry, calcium signaling, and electrophysiology were employed for analysis.
Main Results:
- Successful fabrication of 3D neuronal constructs with gray- and white-matter tract-like structures.
- Formation of dense, 3D axon networks was confirmed.
- Spontaneous and evoked neural activity was detected in the bioprinted networks.
Conclusions:
- The bioprinting system can fabricate high-resolution, free-standing neuronal structures.
- This platform is suitable for studying neural network fundamentals.
- Potential applications include neuromorphic circuit engineering and in vitro drug screening.
