Brain-On-chip Modeling Service

At Creative Biolabs, we harness the power of microfluidics and advanced cell culture to offer sophisticated Brain-on-Chip modeling services. These cutting-edge microphysiological systems (MPS) provide unprecedented insights into brain function, neurodegenerative diseases, and drug efficacy by recapitulating key aspects of the human brain's intricate microenvironment in vitro. Partner with us to accelerate your neuroscience research and develop novel therapeutics with greater precision and human relevance.

What is a Brain-on-Chip?

A Brain-on-Chip is a sophisticated microfluidic device, typically the size of a microscope slide, that houses living neuronal cells, and often other supportive brain cell types, within continuously perfused micro-channels. This technology integrates principles of cell biology, microfabrication, and bioengineering to create a dynamic 3D cellular environment that mimics specific functionalities and physiological characteristics of the brain or its substructures. These chips allow for precise control over experimental conditions and real-time observation of cellular behavior, offering a significant leap forward from traditional 2D cell cultures or even static 3D models.

The Power of Microphysiological Systems for Neural Insights

Brain-on-Chip platforms represent a paradigm shift in how we study the nervous system. By emulating tissue-level organization, cell-cell interactions, mechanical cues (like fluid shear stress), and controlled exposure to biochemical stimuli, these systems offer a more physiologically accurate window into neural responses. This allows for the investigation of complex processes such as neuronal network activity, neuroinflammation, axonal growth and injury, drug transport across the BBB, and the cellular mechanisms underlying neurological disorders.

Advantages of Creative Biolabs' Brain-on-Chip Models

Our Brain-on-Chip Modeling Services

Creative Biolabs provides an end-to-end solution for your Brain-on-Chip research needs:

1. Custom Microfluidic Chip Design and Fabrication:
   We work with you to design and manufacture bespoke chips tailored to your specific experimental requirements, including defined channel geometries, multiple compartments, and material selection.
2. Diverse Neural Cell Sourcing and Culture:
   • Utilization of human iPSC-derived neurons, astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, and endothelial cells.
   • Incorporation of primary cells where appropriate.
   • Development of mono-cultures, co-cultures, and tri-cultures to simulate complex cellular interactions.
3. Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) Models-on-Chip:
   • Reconstruction of the BBB using human brain microvascular endothelial cells, pericytes, and astrocytes.
   • Assessment of barrier formation, integrity (TEER measurements), and permeability to compounds.
4. Neuroinflammation Models-on-Chip:
   • Investigate inflammatory responses by incorporating microglia and astrocytes and introducing pro-inflammatory stimuli.
   • Study cytokine release, immune cell activation, and neuronal responses to inflammation.
5. Disease-Specific Models-on-Chip:
   • Develop models for neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's, Parkinson's), neurodevelopmental disorders, or acute injuries like stroke, using patient-derived iPSCs or by inducing disease-specific pathologies.
6. Drug Screening and Efficacy Testing:
   • Evaluate the efficacy, mechanism of action, and optimal dosage of novel neurotherapeutics.
   • Assess compound penetration across the BBB.
7. Neurotoxicity Assessment:
   • Determine the potential neurotoxic effects of drug candidates, chemicals, or environmental agents.
8. Functional Readouts and Analysis:
   • Electrophysiology (e.g., multi-electrode array (MEA) integration).
   • Calcium imaging for neuronal activity.
   • Immunocytochemistry and high-content imaging.
   • Biomarker analysis (e.g., cytokine secretion, neurotransmitter release).
   • Barrier integrity assays (TEER, tracer permeability).

Key Features of Our Platform

• Advanced Microfluidic Designs: Optimized for long-term cell viability, stable perfusion, and precise control of the cellular microenvironment.
• Multi-Compartment Capabilities: Enabling the study of interactions between different cell populations or tissue types (e.g., vascular and neural compartments in BBB models).
• Optional Integrated Sensing Technologies: Incorporating electrodes for electrophysiological measurements or sensors for monitoring oxygen, pH, or barrier function.
• High-Resolution Imaging Compatibility: Chips are designed using optically clear materials suitable for various microscopy techniques, including confocal and live-cell imaging.
• Reproducibility and Standardization: Emphasis on standardized protocols and quality control measures to ensure reliable and reproducible results.

Applications of Brain-on-Chip Models

Our Brain-on-Chip services can be applied across a wide range of neuroscience research areas:

• Neurodegenerative Disease Research: Modeling Alzheimer's disease (amyloid/tau pathology), Parkinson's disease (dopaminergic neuron degeneration), and other neurodegenerative conditions.
• Neurodevelopmental Studies: Investigating aspects of neuronal differentiation, migration, and network formation.
• Neuroinflammatory Disease Modeling: Studying the role of inflammation in neurological disorders.
• Drug Discovery and Development: High-content screening, lead optimization, target validation, and mechanism of action studies.
• Blood-Brain Barrier Research: Assessing drug permeability, efflux transporter activity, and mechanisms of BBB disruption or protection.
• Neurotoxicology: Evaluating the safety of pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals, and environmental toxins on neural cells and the BBB.

Our Streamlined Workflow

Creative Biolabs follows a collaborative and systematic approach to ensure project success:

Ready to unlock new dimensions in your neurological research?

• Contact us Today to discuss your project with our Brain-on-Chip specialists.
• Request a Quote for our tailored Brain-on-Chip modeling services.
• Explore Our Capabilities and learn how Creative Biolabs can be your partner in neuroscience innovation.

Reference

1. Brofiga, Martina, and Paolo Massobrio. "Brain-on-a-Chip: Dream or Reality?." Frontiers in neuroscience vol. 16 837623. 2 Mar. 2022, doi:10.3389/fnins.2022.837623. Distributed under Open Access License CC BY 4.0. The original image was modified.