In recent years, scientists have learned how to load 3D printers with cells and other scaffolding ingredients to create living tissue. However, constructing realistic brain-like structures has always been a challenge. Using the new process, neural progenitor cells were printed that were able to differentiate into neurons and form functional neural circuits within and between layers of tissue. 3D-printed astrocyte progenitor cells developed into mature astrocytes with distinct projections forming functional neuron-astrocyte networks.

The scientists believe that the newly engineered human neuronal tissues are likely to be useful for understanding the connectivity of human neuronal networks, modeling pathological processes and serving as platforms for drug testing.

Original publication:
Yan Y, Li X, Gao Y, Mathivanan S, Kong L, Tao Y, Dong Y, Li X, Bhattacharyya A, Zhao X, Zhang SC. 3D bioprinting of human neural tissues with functional connectivity. Cell Stem Cell. 2024 Feb 1;31(2):260-274.e7. doi: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.12.009. PMID: 38306994.