In a groundbreaking achievement, a team of scientists at the University of Wisconsin–Madison has pioneered the creation of the first 3D-printed brain tissue capable of growth and functioning akin to typical brain tissue. This milestone bears significant implications for researchers investigating the complexities of the brain and developing treatments for various neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Led by Su-Chun Zhang, a professor of neuroscience and neurology at UW–Madison’s Waisman Center, the team introduced their innovative technique in the journal Cell Stem Cell. Unlike conventional vertical layering in 3D printing, the scientists adopted a horizontal approach, facilitating the growth of brain cells, specifically neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells, within a softer "bio-ink" gel.
For more information on how Bio-Ink is used in the medical field, click the link here: Cutting-edge 3D Bioprinting Technology Transforms Healthcare in Needed Organ Transplant Replacement.
Zhang goes into further detail, saying,
"The tissue still has enough structure to hold together but it is soft enough to allow the neurons to grow into each other and start talking to each other."
The cells are arranged horizontally, resembling pencils on a tabletop, enabling optimal oxygen and nutrient supply crucial for their growth. Remarkably, the printed brain tissue exhibits intricate connectivity reminiscent of human brains. Neurons establish connections within and across layers, forming networks and communicating through neurotransmitters. Yuanwei Yan, a scientist in Zhang’s lab, notes, "Even when we printed different cells belonging to different parts of the brain, they were still able to talk to each other in a very special and specific way."
The precision offered by this printing technique surpasses that of brain organoids, allowing for controlled arrangement and types of cells. Zhang emphasizes,
"Because we can print the tissue by design, we can have a defined system to look at how our human brain network operates."
This specificity renders the printed brain tissue versatile for studying various neurological conditions and developmental processes. It could unravel the intricacies of signaling in Down syndrome and interactions in Alzheimer’s affected tissue, test novel drug candidates, or observe brain development.
Furthermore, the accessibility of this technique makes it feasible for numerous labs, requiring standard equipment already prevalent in the field. However, the researchers aim to enhance their bio-ink and equipment for specific cell orientations within the printed tissue.
Yan said, "Our brain tissue could be used to study almost every major aspect of what many people at the Waisman Center are working on." This pioneering work heralds a new era in brain research, promising deeper insights into the mysteries of the human mind and its myriad disorders.
To download the research article, click here:
To view the research article, click here: 3D bioprinting of human neural tissues with functional connectivity
Keywords: 3D Printing Brain Tissue Cure Alzheimer's Parkinson's
very cool