3D-Printed Human Brain Tissue Achieved by Wisconsin Researchers

Recent research efforts have resulted in the creation of 3D-printed human brain tissue capable of growth and function similar to natural brain tissue. This development is part of ongoing scientific studies focused on replicating human brain structures and properties using advanced printing and modeling techniques.

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison developed a method for printing human brain tissue that can grow and function in ways that resemble typical brain tissue. The process involves using a horizontal printing technique and a soft gel bio-ink, which is derived from induced pluripotent stem cells.

The resulting printed tissue includes both neurons and glial cells, which are essential for forming networks and facilitating communication through neurotransmitters. This approach allows the tissue to mimic some of the key functions of brain cells in a laboratory environment.

In addition to the living tissue, scientists have also produced a full-scale human brain simulant. This simulant was created by filling a 3D-printed negative mold with a polymeric material, using data obtained from MRI scans to accurately model the brain’s structure.

What the numbers show

• The full-size brain simulant measures about 133.7 mm × 181.8 mm × 121.3 mm
• Biomechanical tests were performed on the prefrontal cortex, parietal lobe, and temporal lobe
• The research was reported in February 2024

The full-scale brain model was used for biomechanical testing, which involved applying compressive forces to different regions of the brain simulant. These regions included the prefrontal cortex, parietal lobe, and temporal lobe, allowing researchers to study how the material responds to physical stress.

The combination of living 3D-printed tissue and physical brain simulants offers new opportunities for examining brain function and mechanical properties in controlled settings. The use of MRI-derived models ensures that the simulants closely match the dimensions and shapes of real human brains.

These developments provide researchers with tools for studying brain tissue growth, cellular communication, and the mechanical characteristics of brain structures. The methods described rely on established laboratory techniques and imaging data to achieve accurate and functional models.

Current research in this area continues to focus on improving the fidelity and functionality of printed brain tissue and simulants. The documented methods and measurements support further investigation into the properties and potential uses of these models in scientific and medical research.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.