NEUROCHIP

Human-derived 3D brain organoids are becoming state of the art as they replicate the complex physiology and structure of the human brain. However, current models do not effectively record electrical activity, which is critical to the translational value of any brain model. To address this gap, the NEUROCHIP project will integrate 3D glass microfluidic devices with a new generation of microelectrode arrays that will enable parallel culturing and high-resolution recording of 3D brain organoids.

As the world's first solution to enable robust assessment of neuronal activity in 3D human brain organoids, NEUROCHIP offers revolutionary translational power to support research and drug development for a wide range of neurological diseases.

The NMI will use its vast experience in microelectrode fabrication to develop innovative microelectrodes that will be integrated into microfluidic glass chips manufactured by its project partner FEMTOprint SA (Muzzano, Switzerland). Combined with human induced pluripotent stem cells and advanced 3D technologies, these new devices will be validated by culturing brain organoids and measuring their electrical activity under experimental conditions that mimic central nervous system functions and dysfunctions.