3D bioprinted neural circuitry models

National Center For Advancing Translational Sciences

Investigators

Abstract

The NCATS 3D Tissue Bioprinting laboratory has been working in creating functional hydrogel-based neural models. These models are created using iPSC-derived neurons and astrocytes mixed with laminin/fibrin-based hydrogels together with AVV-delivery of fluorescence biosensors that enable measurement of neural activity and neurotransmitter levels in 3D tissues. We have been able to show that we can bioprint these neurons/astrocytes/hydrogel mixtures to create spatially designed functional neural circuits. Our data shows that the activity of the neural circuits depends on their geometry and so are the pharmacological responses to known drugs, including morphine for a drug addiction circuit. This year we also develop a custom probe-based instrument that enabled the measurement of fluorescence from biosensors and electrical activity from the neural tissues. This instrument is unique in that allows to measurements in specified locations in the tissues and also allows to optogenetics stimulation of the neural circuits.