Comparison between dynamic versus static models and real-time monitoring of neuronal dysfunction in an amyloid-β induced neuronal toxic model on a chip platform

Lab Chip. 2024 Mar 26;24(7):1887-1902. doi: 10.1039/d3lc00507k.

Abstract

Microfluidics-based organs-on-a-chip offer a promising method for dynamic and 3-dimensional (3D) cell culture to evaluate the cell behaviors within the biomimetic environment. The purpose of this study was to establish neural network connections in a 3D neural stem cell (NSC)-based system with an interstitial level of flow for simulating the brain microenvironment toward a dynamic amyloid-β (Aβ) induced neuronal toxic model on a chip and to compare the biological effects and neurite dysfunction between static and dynamic systems. The brain-on-a-chip system consisted of an impedance analyzing layer, a structured well with a connected channel, and an interface coating with polypeptide films fabricated with modification based on our previous study. The cytotoxicity and percentage of neuron/astrocyte differentiation were all compared in both static and dynamic brain-on-a-chip systems. Reactive oxygen species production, neuron marker expression and neurotransmitter-acetylcholine release were all compared to evaluate functional neurite losses in both static and dynamic systems with/without Aβ addition. Moreover, real-time impedance recording was used to consecutively monitor the neurite connection/disconnection in both static and dynamic brain-on-a-chip systems. The NSC-based dynamic brain-on-a-chip may enable the application of different neurodegenerative disease in vitro models for pathogenesis studies, drug discovery and novel therapeutic method development.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Amyloid beta-Peptides / toxicity
  • Humans
  • Lab-On-A-Chip Devices
  • Neural Stem Cells*
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases*
  • Neurons

Substances

  • Amyloid beta-Peptides