Innovative 3D Bioprinted Brain Model Advances Understanding of Neurological Disorders

A pioneering research team has successfully developed a sophisticated three-dimensional (3D) brain model that closely replicates the structure and function of the human brain. Published in the International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing, this breakthrough was led by Professor Dong-Woo Cho from POSTECH's Department of Mechanical Engineering and Professor Jinah Jang from multiple departments including Mechanical Engineering, IT Convergence Engineering, and Life Sciences, in collaboration with Dr. Mihyeon Bae and Dr. Joeng Ju Kim.

This bioengineered neural network, constructed layer by layer similar to 3D printing technology, features a biomimetic setup divided into gray matter and white matter regions, mirroring natural brain compartments. Electrical stimulation was utilized to direct axonal growth, forming aligned and interconnected neural pathways that emulate the brain’s native communication network. Monitoring calcium ion flux confirmed the model’s electrophysiological responses akin to genuine brain tissue.

The team employed this platform to examine the impact of alcohol on brain health. They exposed the model to ethanol at a moderate concentration over three weeks, revealing region-specific neurotoxic effects. In the gray matter, levels of Alzheimer’s-associated proteins such as amyloid-beta and tau increased, while in the white matter, neural fibers exhibited swelling and morphological distortions, impairing signal propagation. This research is the first to visualize and quantify alcohol-induced neurotoxicity in real-time within a bioengineered brain model.

Professor Cho highlighted the model’s potential for high-resolution analysis of neural connectivity and electrophysiology, which could greatly enhance early detection and prediction of brain diseases. Professor Jang emphasized its significance in understanding the initial pathological changes in neurodegenerative conditions. This innovative approach opens new avenues for studying brain disorders and developing targeted therapies.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-3d-brain-neurological-disorders.html