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Connecting neural networks: Nervous-system-on-Chip Technology

Project description

Development of a novel organ-on-chip model for the nervous system

Innovative in vitro models, so-called organs-on-chips, recapitulate the structure and function of human organs and are important for basic scientific research and the preclinical development of novel therapeutics. Cell connectivity and the crosstalk between different components of organ systems are essential for understanding complex conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases. The EU-funded CONNECT project is developing the next-level in vitro models for the nervous system. The project represents an interdisciplinary effort involving nanofabrication, microfluidics, stem cell technology, tissue engineering and advanced imaging. As proof-of-principle, CONNECT aims to demonstrate the efficacy of this system model in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, paving the way for the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Objective

Novel micro-engineered in vitro models have been developed to mimic key functions of human organs. These so-called organ-on-chips (OoC) recapitulate the structure and function of human organs, and are particularly important for scientific research that is underlying our knowledge base of diseases and for the pre-clinical development of novel therapeutics. However, the application of these models has its limitations as they do not mimic the complexity and functioning of complete organ systems. Connectivity between cells and the linkage between different components of organ systems is essential in studying complex conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases. These diseases form a major challenge for the scientific community and are associated with a heavy burden on society and the global healthcare systems. To effectively grasp the complexity of neurodegenerative disorders, the CONNECT consortium develops the next level in vitro model systems for the nervous system and puts it firmly on the map. The project acts at the convergence of a multitude of disciplines including nanofabrication, microfluidics, stem cell technology, tissue engineering and advanced imaging. The successful completion of this high risk-high gain project will enable for the first time to study a complete organ system and deliver a viable paradigm for future technology to study connectivity in the nervous system. The proposed work in this project offers a unique opportunity to culture individual nervous system components and connect them in a single “smart” microfluidic chip (CONNECT platform), forming an elementary three compartment model from the central nervous system (CNS) to the peripheral nervous system (PNS). As Proof-of-Principle, CONNECT will demonstrate the feasibility of this system model in Parkinson’s Disease. This provides CONNECT with novel insights, thereby paving the way for future development of therapeutic strategies.

Call for proposal

H2020-FETPROACT-2018-2020

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Sub call

H2020-FETPROACT-2018-01

Coordinator

TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITEIT EINDHOVEN
Net EU contribution
€ 1 675 000,00
Address
GROENE LOPER 3
5612 AE Eindhoven
Netherlands

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Region
Zuid-Nederland Noord-Brabant Zuidoost-Noord-Brabant
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost
€ 1 675 000,00

Participants (6)