Oxford Researchers Use Stem Cells to 3D Print Cortex Tissue
Researchers at the University of Oxford have demonstrated the use of stem cells to create a three dimensional scaffold that mimics the tissue of the human cerebral cortex. The breakthrough opens a path toward repairing brain damage with lab grown tissue. This development is highlighted by EurekAlert and underscores a new era in neural engineering.
Damage to the cerebral cortex from events such as trauma, stroke, or surgical procedures often leads to challenges in learning, communication, and movement. The ability to replace or repair damaged cortical tissue holds promise for restoring function and improving quality of life for affected individuals.
In the study, stem cells were used to craft engineered tissue that represents a simplified version of the cerebral cortex. Stem cells are undifferentiated units that can develop into various organs and tissues within the body. A key advantage of using patient derived stem cells is that the resulting tissue is less likely to be recognized as foreign by the immune system, reducing the risk of rejection and the need for immunosuppressive treatment.
Initial experiments involved implanting printed engineered tissue into the brains of laboratory mice. The implanted tissue and the mouse brain cells interacted closely, with neurons migrating between the host tissue and the graft. The findings demonstrate a degree of integration, a critical step toward functional compatibility in future therapies.
Looking ahead, researchers aim to refine the 3D printing process to build layered, multi component structures that more closely replicate the architecture of the human cortex. The goal is to create implants that could be used in human patients to replace damaged cortical tissue. Beyond restoration of function, the engineered tissues may also serve as platforms for evaluating how drugs affect neural circuits and brain behavior in a controlled setting.
Early work in the field has also included innovative approaches to treating sensory loss using nanotechnology, illustrating the breadth of strategies being explored to address neurological disorders and related conditions.