3D Bioelectronic Platforms for Neuron Regeneration

Neurodegenerative diseases represent more than 600 types of nervous system disorders, and are defined by increasing loss of structure and function of neurons. In vitro cell cultures have played a significant role in advancing the understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and facilitating research into regenerative pathways. Bioelectronic, cell culture platforms allow for integration of bioelectronic cues to monitor or stimulate neuron regeneration, in a controlled environment. Organic electronic materials, notably conducting polymers, enable 3D bioelectronic interfaces and bridge the dimensionality mismatch between 2D/static electronics and 3D/dynamic biology.^[1] In this talk, I will discuss the development of biomimetic, electrically active platforms for creating 3D neural networks in vitro. First, I will show the design of electrically conductive 3D scaffolds that support biomimetic human stem cell cultures. These scaffolds, made from porous poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)(styrenesulfonate), (PEDOT:PSS), are integrated into electrode configurations and serve as platforms for the growth of 3D human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs), facilitating their differentiation into neuron-like cells. Next, I will present the development of advanced 3D multifunctional porous scaffolds that combine both electrical conductivity and photosensitivity. These scaffolds are created by freeze-drying water-based solutions of PEDOT:PSS and the semiconducting polymer P3CPT, forming structures that enhance neural cell interaction.I will then describe the use of electrically conducting hydrogels in constructing 3D neural networks from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Finally, I will explain how we integrate these 3D constructs with microfabricated electrode arrays to monitor biological signals, capturing stem cell differentiation and neural activity.

References:
[1] 3D organic bioelectronics for electrical monitoring of human adult stem cells, A. Savva,* J. Saez, A. Withers, V. Stoeger, C. Barberio, S. Elias-Kirma, Z. Lu, C.-M. Moysidou, K. Kallitsis, C. Pitsalidis, R.M. Owens, Materials Horizons, 2023, 10, 3589-3600.