Engineering lab-on-a-chip nervous system organoids for neuroprosthetic applications

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Nervous system (NS) organoids, which are three-dimensional structures made from stem cells that mimic the developmental processes and architecture of the NS, have the potential to revolutionise neuroprosthetics research. Neuroprosthetics are devices that are designed to replace or augment the function of the nervous system, and their effectiveness depends on the ability to accurately detect and interpret neuronal activity. By using NS organoids to model different central or peripheral NS regions or study their development, we can gain a better understanding of the neural basis of neuro-machine interfaces and improve the design and performance of neuroprosthetics. Additionally, NS organoids can be used to study the long-term effects of neuroprosthetics on neuronal tissue structure and function, and to identify potential side effects or complications. The combination of organoid models with engineering approaches such as microfluidics and biomaterials that mimic human physiology may facilitate the development of more effective and biologically compatible neuroprosthetics for restoring sensory or motor function in individuals with neurological disorders or injuries. The goal of this project is to create a series of nervous system organoids that can be used to aid in the development of biologically compatible neuroprosthetics.The objectives of this multidisciplinary project include: - Biomaterials (Obj1): creating a series of hydrogels that mimic the extracellular matrices of different nervous system regions. - Cell culture (Obj2): selecting, culturing, and expanding neuronal and non-neuronal cells to be later encapsulated within hydrogels using microfluidics. - Microfluidics (Obj3): developing droplet-based microfluidic devices for high-throughput organoid fabrication. - Organoid analysis (Obj4): characterising the physiological, biomechanical, and developmental properties of the organoids over time. - Electrodes (Obj5): developing lab-on-a-chip devices for simulating and recording the activity of neurons (in central nervous system organoids) and nerves (in peripheral nervous system organoids).This project brings together my research objectives, which focus on developing a mechanical fingerprint of the nervous system, and the interests of a potential PhD student in developing peripheral sensory neural electrodes for neuroprosthetic applications.