Topic: microvasculature

Organ-on-chip (OoC) technologies are designed to mimic natural structure and function of organs. Integrating microfluidics to OoCs allows long-term perfusion and stability, essential for cultivating physiological conditions similar to intact organs. However, current OoC systems predominantly use primary cell cultures over organotypic tissue cultures (OTCs) or entire organs, due to the absence of extensive microvasculature. This limitation compromises the viability of larger tissue volumes as they suffer from inadequate oxygen and nutrient delivery, along with the absence of perfusion. This stu

A functional microvasculature is a paramount target for accomplishing long-lasting engineered tissues. The challenge in neuroscience is building a microvascular network that could mimic the neurovascular unit, allowing the central nervous system (CNS) vitality. The vessels invade the CNS extracellular matrix (ECM) during embryogenesis. Biomaterials can offer the structural guidance and signaling pathways to recapitulate this complex process. Our project (THOR – European Innovation Council-Pathfinder Programme, Grant Agreement number 101099719) uses high-performance functionalized silk fibers w

Aims: Parkinson's disease (PD), a chronic neurological disorder affecting motor functions, is characterized by damage to dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). This study investigates the therapeutic properties of bacterial melanin (BM), known for enhancing brain trophic effects, inhibiting inflammation, and mitigating gliosis—a key aspect in PD development.Methods: To assess rat brain morpho-functional states, we conducted histochemical and morphometric studies on SNc cellular structures post-rotenone intoxication and under BM influence. Experiments involved intact