Innovative 3D Bioprinted Brain Model Advances Understanding of Neurological Disorders
Researchers have developed a 3D bioprinted brain model that closely mimics human neural architecture, offering new insights into neurodegenerative diseases and alcohol-induced neurotoxicity.
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
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Research Finds No Elevated Risk of Childhood Cancer Near UK Nuclear Sites
A recent study shows no evidence of increased childhood cancer risk near UK nuclear power stations, supporting continued public health safety and monitoring efforts.
Advances in Alzheimer's Disease Research Highlight Promising Therapeutic Targets
New research from the University of Malaga uncovers key mechanisms in Alzheimer's disease progression, opening doors for targeted therapies to halt or slow the disease's advancement.
Milestone Achieved: Five-Year Survival in Unresectable Liver Cancer Patients
A recent study in the Journal of Hepatology reports a groundbreaking five-year survival milestone in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma patients treated with immunotherapy, setting new standards in liver cancer management.
Genetic Insights Reveal Variability in Insulin Loss Speed in Type 1 Diabetes Patients
New genetic research identifies factors influencing the speed of insulin depletion in type 1 diabetes, paving the way for personalized treatment approaches and improved disease management.