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Applying technologies of additive manufacturing to the field of tissue engineering created a pioneering new approach to model complex cell systems artificially. Regarding its huge potential, bioprinting is still in its infancies and many questions are still unanswered. To address this issue, an extrusion-based bioprinting (EBB) process was used to deposit human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells in a defined pattern. It was shown that the bioprinted construct featured a high degree in viability reaching up to 77% 10 days after printing (DAP). This work displays a proof of principle for a controlled cell formation which shall later be applied to in vitro drug screening tests using various types of cells.
Microelectrode array (MEA) technology in combination with three-dimensional (3D) neuronal cell models derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESC) provide an excellent tool for neurotoxicity screening. Yet, there are significant challenges in terms of data processing and analysis, since neuronal signals have very small amplitudes and the 3D structure enhances the level of background noise. Thus, neuronal signal analysis requires the application of highly sophisticated algorithms. In this study, we present a new approach optimized for the detection of spikes recorded from 3D neurospheres (NS) with a very low signal-to-noise ratio. This was achieved by extending simple threshold-based spike detection utilizing a highly sensitive algorithm named SWTTEO. This analysis procedure was applied to data obtained from hESC-derived NS grown on MEA chips. Specifically, we examined changes in the activity pattern occurring within the first ten days of electrical activity. We further analyzed the response of NS to the GABA receptor antagonist bicuculline. With this new algorithm method we obtained more reliable results compared to the simple threshold-based spike detection.
Various studies have shown that two dimensional (2D) neuronal cell cultures does not recapitulate structure and physiology of three-dimensional (3D) in vivo tissues. These findings are of paramount importance for drug screening, since the response to neurotoxicological substances may differ for 2D und 3D cell culture models. To address this topic, we present human embryonic stem cell (hESC) derived neurospheres (NS) coupled onto microelectrode array (MEA) chips as a model system that includes a 3D NS as well as an outgrowing 2D monolayer allowing direct comparison of functionality within one culture. Preliminary results revealed an enhanced functional reactions of 3D NS to GABA receptor antagonist bicuculline compared to the 2D domain. Thus we have the first evidence that hESC derived NS are a promising model system for neurotoxicity testing enabling a direct comparison between functionality of neurons grown in 2D or 3D.
At present, most neurotoxicological studies in the field of microelectrode array (MEA) technology are based on in vivo or in vitro animal models, particularly in mice or rats. These models contributed much to our knowledge about molecular and cellular mechanisms of neurotoxins affecting the central nervous system. Yet, animal models are not necessarily capable to forecasting the effectiveness of treatment in clinical trials. Therefore the development and characterization of suitable neuronal cell models derived from human cells is emerging in the field of toxicity testing. In this study, we present neurospheres (NS) as a new three dimensional (3D) neuronal cell model based on human embryonic stem cells (hESC), coupled onto microelectrode arrays (MEA). This cell-based assay serves as platform to investigate effects of neuroactive substances on network communication. In order to characterize the neurospheres’ reaction, the well-known GABA receptor antagonist bicuculline and the sodium channel blocker carbamazepine are applied. Preliminary results reveal anticipated and physiologically reasonable alterations in network activity. Thus, we have the first evidence that hESC derived NS are a promising 3D cell model for neurotoxicity testing. In further studies, this model will be used to investigate effects of ionizing radiation on network signaling.
Human embryonic stem cell derived neurospheres form functional networks on microelectrode arrays
(2015)
In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in electrically conductive hydrogels for a wide range of biomedical applications, like tissue engineering or biosensors. In this study, we present a cost-effective conductive hydrogel based on alginate and graphene nanoplatelets for extrusion-based bioprinters. The hydrogel is prepared under ambient conditions avoiding high temperatures detrimental for cell culture environments. Investigation of the hydrogel revealed a conductivity of up to 7.5 S/cm, depending on the ratio of platelets. Furthermore, in vitro tests with human embyronic kidney cells - as an example cell type - showed good adhesion of the cells to the surface of the conductive hydrogel. Electrochemical measurements revealed a low electrode impedance which is desirable for the extracellular recording, but also low electrode capacitance, which is unfavorable for electrical stimulation purposes. Therefore, future experiments with the graphene nanoplatelets-based hydrogels will focus on electrodes for biosensors and extracellular recordings of neurons or cardiac myocytes.