Neuropathogenesis-on-chips for neurodegenerative diseases

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Neuroscience
• Stem Cell Biology

Background:

• Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) present complex challenges in diagnostics and treatment due to multifactorial and gradual pathogenesis.
• Traditional animal models often fail to fully recapitulate the intricate pathophysiology of human NDs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review interconnected pathogenic features across various NDs.
• To discuss strategies for modeling NDs using microfluidic chips.
• To introduce organoids-on-chips as advanced in vitro models for ND research.

Main Methods:

• Exploration of pathogenic mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases.
• Application of microfluidic chip technology for disease modeling.
• Integration of stem cells and organoid technology to create organoids-on-chips.
• Overview of current applications in academic and industrial drug development.

Main Results:

• Microfluidic chips provide a platform for modeling complex ND pathophysiology.
• Organoids-on-chips represent a next-generation model for advanced in vitro studies.
• These advanced models are increasingly utilized in drug discovery and development pipelines.

Conclusions:

• The integration of microfluidics, stem cells, and biotechnology offers powerful tools for biomedical research.
• Advanced in vitro models show significant promise for gaining insights into NDs.
• These systems are crucial for developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic solutions for neurodegenerative diseases.