MiniBrains: NanoBionic Interface to dissect neuronal network activity in 3D cortical organoids

Ciro Chiappini     (primary)
Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology    
King's College London
Rickie Patani     (secondary)
Institute of Neurology    
University College London

Abstract

Understanding the molecular processes involved in the formation and stabilization of neuronal networks requires efficient in vitro platforms to stimulate and interrogate developing brain-like structures. To this end, we will generate self-organised 3D cortical organoids (MiniBrains) that will be dynamically stimulated at precise locations with a NanoBionic interface. The proteomics and transcriptomics analysis of the MiniBrains throughout their development will reveal the molecular expression patterns. Dynamic imaging of fluorescent calcium reporter MiniBrains generated with CRISPR/Cas9 will correlate molecular expression and neuronal network activity patterns. This project combines nanotechnology, omics and organoids to investigate neuronal network development.


References

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BBSRC Area
Genes, development and STEM* approaches to biology
Area of Biology
Cell BiologyNeurobiology
Techniques & Approaches
BioinformaticsChemistryEngineeringMicroscopy / ElectrophysiologyMolecular Biology