Microfluidic models of the CNS: Understanding cells, circuits & synapses

目的：我们的目标是开发新的细胞培养平台，以形成定义的脑细胞网络。这些平台将用于确定中枢神经系统功能的关键机制。 重要性：开发的设备将实现前所未有的能力来监测整个网络的变化，并在突触，细胞和电路的水平上进行分析。 预期成果：我们将推进有关中枢神经系统功能的知识，并提供复杂的人类细胞系统，这些系统既有发现又有商业应用。 优点：这些平台将在随后的应用中揭示许多神经系统疾病的潜在机制，并有能力进行快速药物筛选。

Aims: We aim to develop new cell culture platforms to form defined networks of brain cells. These platforms will be used to determine the critical mechanisms underpinning central nervous system function. Significance: The devices developed will enable an unprecedented capacity to monitor changes throughout a network, with analysis at the level of the synapse, cell and circuit. Expected outcomes: We will advance knowledge regarding the function of the CNS and deliver complex human cellular systems, that have both discovery and commercial applications. Benefit: These platforms will have subsequent application revealing the mechanisms underlying numerous neurological diseases, with capacity to upscale for rapid drug screening.