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Brain-on-chip breakthrough for brain disease research
© CSEM
The urgent need for advanced brain disease research tools
Neurological disorders are a major health challenge. They are the top cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide. Even in wealthy regions like Europe, the costs of these disorders exceed those of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes combined. Despite medical advances, developing effective treatments is tough due to limited brain tissue access and high drug failure rates. However, Brain-on-Chip technology and organoid-based models are game-changers, offering new solutions that could revolutionize brain research and drug development.
Innovative solution: brain-on-chip technology
In partnership with 3Brain and the Bern University of Applied Sciences, CSEM has developed an innovative multi-well plate platform that leverages Brain-on-Chip technology. This technology mimics the brain’s environment using tiny silicon chips, allowing scientists to observe how brain cells interact and respond to treatments in a controlled setting. The multi-well platform is designed for high-throughput screening, enabling researchers to conduct multiple experiments simultaneously and gather comprehensive data more efficiently. What sets this platform apart is its integration of high-resolution microelectrode arrays (HD-MEAs) with advanced microwell culture dishes. HD-MEAs contain thousands of tiny electrodes that can measure the electrical activity of cells, providing detailed insights into 2D and 3D cell electrophysiological activity. This empowers researchers to study brain cell behavior in unprecedented detail.
Key features of the brain-on-chip platform
“This system is designed to record data from 24 samples at once using a special 3D setup, which keeps the samples in good condition and works much faster than older systems. It has a powerful microchip with thousands of sensors that speeds up data processing and reduces costs,” explains Gilles Weder, Head of Research & Business Development, Life Science Technologies, CSEM. “The system can also perform detailed tests on 3D models, helping researchers get better data on how cells behave and improving the accuracy of drug testing. Furthermore, it’s designed to fit into standard lab setups, making it easy to use and helping to increase efficiency and scalability.”
Transformative impact on society and economy
The combination of microelectrode arrays, advanced chip packaging, and high-throughput capabilities makes this Brain-on-Chip technology a market leader. It offers faster results through integrated data processing and multi-well high-throughput assays for 3D models, seamlessly fitting into existing pharmaceutical workflows. Mauro Gandolfo, CEO of 3Brain, highlights the profound societal and economic implications of this technology: “By reducing drug failure rates, it can significantly lower research and development costs. For patients, advancing brain disease treatments improves outcomes and reduces the burden on healthcare systems and families. And lastly, Switzerland, already a global leader in life sciences, stands to benefit from the commercialization of Brain-on-Chip technology, fostering growth in its pharmaceutical and microtech sectors.”
Conclusion: a brighter future for brain disease treatment
CSEM’s Brain-on-Chip technology, in collaboration with advanced organoid models, is set to revolutionize brain research and drug discovery. By overcoming the limitations of traditional systems, this innovative solution provides an ethical, scalable, and cost-effective pathway to understanding and treating neurological disorders. With Brain-on-Chip technology, the future of brain disease treatment looks brighter and more promising than ever.