Smart Biomaterials for neural tissue engineering applications

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

This project is part of an ambitious 5-student centre for doctoral training at Loughborough University within the area of brain-on-a-chip technology. There is an urgent need for research into neurodegenerative disease, however our lack of understanding of complex brain circuitry restricts modelling and evaluation for future healthcare strategies. The cellular architecture of neural tissue is of key importance for its function. Any future surgical intervention to deliver tissue engineered neural tissue will need to ensure manipulation of this delicate tissue without compromising cell viability or connectivity. Compromise of either cellular viability or tissue architecture will affect performance of any such regenerative medicine approach. This project specifically focuses on the development of novel smart materials which will ensure support and easy handling of highly organised neuronal circuits cultured in 3D. Approaches will also investigate the potential of these materials for delivery of the tissue (e.g. to a transplant site) with attention on whole tissue function rather than only at the single cell level.