E!11459, 3DBrainScreen, Cellevate AB

Important results from the project

The project´s objective is the development of an in vitro "Brain-on-a-chip" model for use in Drug Discovery by measuring electrical activity with a new 3D microelectrode technology in human neural networks grown in biomimetic conditions. Important objectives have been met. Protocols for culturing functional human neural networks have been developed and validated with existing electrophysiological techniques. 3D human nerve cell cultures have been shown to be biocompatible with the 3D microelectrodes and show the ability to develop activity in basic electrode measurements.

Expected long term effects

The project has resulted in the development of measurement systems and the functional validation of a protocol for culturing a functional human neural network, using induced pluripotent stem cells grown on nanofiber substrates. The networks are developed functionally on the microelectrodes, a prerequisite for the development of the proposed end product, which has also been shown to be biocompatible. Due to delays, related to the COVID-19 pandemic, final validation of the total system has not been finalized within the framework of the project period, these experiments are ongoing.

Approach and implementation

The work plan was successfully followed through the use of planned materials and methods, with reference to the establishment of a protocol for a functional human neuronal model. In close collaboration with our partners, successful biocompatibility tests were performed with the new 3D microneedle-based microelectrode equipment. Important milestones have been reached that form the basis for further development of the end product - a 3D "Brain-on-a-chip"