Article:
University of Michigan Researchers Produce Animal-Free Lab-Grown Mini Brains for More Accurate Neurodegenerative Studies
Researchers at the University of Michigan have made a breakthrough in the field of neurodegenerative disease research by developing a method to produce lab-grown mini brains, known as human brain organoids, without the use of animal cells. This innovative technique promises to provide a more accurate study and treatment of neurodegenerative conditions such as ALS and Alzheimer’s.
Previously, brain organoids were grown using Matrigel, a substance derived from mouse sarcomas. However, this method posed challenges due to its undefined composition and batch-to-batch variability, which led to inconsistencies in research outcomes. The new method, on the other hand, uses an engineered extracellular matrix that is free of animal components. This improves the neurogenesis of brain organoids and allows for a more accurate replication of human brain conditions.
The creation of animal-free brain organoids opens up new possibilities for personalized treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers can potentially reprogram cells from patients suffering from these conditions and use them to create mini brain models. This personalized approach could aid in investigating possible treatments and predicting disease progression on an individual level.
The lab-grown organoids using the new method demonstrated enhanced neurogenesis compared to previous studies. By creating a niche environment that closely resembles the natural environment of brain cells, researchers were able to observe differences in organoid development that more faithfully mimic natural brain development.
“This advancement in the development of human brain organoids free of animal components will allow for significant strides in the understanding of neurodevelopmental biology,” said senior author Joerg Lahann, Ph.D., director of the U-M Biointerfaces Institute.
The extracellular matrix used in the new method consisted of human fibronectin, a protein that serves as a native structure for stem cells to adhere, differentiate, and mature. This scaffold, supported by a highly porous polymer, allowed the organoids to be cultured for months.
Using proteomics, researchers found that the brain organoids developed cerebral spinal fluid, a clear liquid that flows around the brain and spinal cords. This fluid closely resembled human adult CSF and surpassed previous organoid models developed using Matrigel.
The success of the animal-free human brain organoids opens the door for future research and clinical applications. The ability to study neurodegenerative diseases with organoids that closely resemble the human brain could revolutionize the field and lead to more effective treatments.
“This novel method will make it easier for translational research to make its way from the lab to the clinic,” said Lahann.
Overall, the development of animal-free lab-grown mini brains marks a significant advancement in the study and treatment of neurodegenerative conditions. The breakthrough offers a more accurate replication of human brain conditions and provides personalized opportunities for investigating treatments and predicting disease progression.