– Researchers have created functional 3D-printed brain tissue that can develop and form connections in the same way as real human brain tissue.
– The tissue is a new tool for studying communication between brain cells and other parts of the human brain, potentially leading to better treatment for diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson'
– 3D bioprinting has huge potential for creating tissues that replicate and replace the real deal
– Printing brain tissue this way allows for a clearer observation of cell interactions and can be used to study the molecular mechanisms underlying brain development
– Neurons need to be able to mature while keeping the tissue structure intact, and supporting cells like astrocytes are essential for the tissue to function properly
– Pre-printed tissue cells can form brain-like networks within and between layers in just a few weeks, allowing for precise control over cell types and arrangement
However, the prototype can't control the direction of mature neurons and lacks the natural structure seen in brain organoids.
The team hopes to improve their process to create more specific brain tissues with guideable cells.