Layer-By-Layer: The Case for 3D Bioprinting Neurons to Create Patient-Specific Epilepsy Models

Abstract

The ability to create three-dimensional (3D) models of brain tissue from patient-derived cells, would open new possibilities in studying the neuropathology of disorders such as epilepsy and schizophrenia. While organoid culture has provided impressive examples of patient-specific models, the generation of organised 3D structures remains a challenge. 3D bioprinting is a rapidly developing technology where living cells, encapsulated in suitable bioink matrices, are printed to form 3D structures. 3D bioprinting may provide the capability to organise neuronal populations in 3D, through layer-by-layer deposition, and thereby recapitulate the complexity of neural tissue. However, printing neuron cells raises particular challenges since the biomaterial environment must be of appropriate softness to allow for the neurite extension, properties which are anathema to building self-supporting 3D structures. Here, we review the topic of 3D bioprinting of neurons, including critical discussions of hardware and bio-ink formulation requirements.

Biocompatibility of α-Al2O3 Ceramic Substrates with Human Neural Precursor Cells

“…Alternatively, organoids can be generated on scaffolds made by biocompatible materials, which can be afterwards seeded with cells. In combination with 3D printing, such scaffolds may be designed to contain channels which would efficiently supply the necessary nutrients to the inner layers of the organoid and increase cell viability (reviewed in [37]). In addition, by employing additive manufacturing methods, favorable properties of 3D sponge or foam porous scaffolds, commonly used in tissue engineering (e.g., bone regrowth, vascularization, and extracellular matrix deposition) can be acquired (e.g., interconnected pore structure for enhanced mechanical properties, uniform tissue development, and rapid mass transport kinetics) [38,39].…”

Engineering in vitro human neural tissue analogs by 3D bioprinting and electrostimulation

“… 8,11 Cellular factors influencing migration and cellular extensions such as neurites of neurons are limited as they become homogeneously dispersed throughout the medium. 9 Further alterations of intercellular connections and interactions, as well as their tissue specific architecture, can be observed, such as abnormal polarization and flattened morphology, which do not replicate the three-dimensional (3D) signaling and networking in vivo . 11–15 Consequently, 2D cell culture has failed to effectively replicate the whole extent of disease pathology, again, for neuropsychiatric and other brain disorder modeling, as well as related drug treatment effects.…”

Searching for Rheological Conditions for FFF 3D Printing with PVC Based Flexible Compounds

“…Various AM processes have considerably improved in last three decades, becoming established in the commercial market [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9]. Each process depends on different phenomena, specific materials, and their physical and rheological characteristics [10][11][12][13][14][15]. Among the materials used for AM polymers have become a main center of interest for a wide range of applications, in addition to metals [16] and ceramics [17].…”