Modelling neurodegenerative disorders in 3D models

With the advent of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and 3D brain organoids, researchers can work with, and visualize brain cells in living human neuronal tissue, resembling what we could obtain from distinct regions in the human brain. Thus, an "Automated 3D brain organoid imaging platform" equipped with liquid handling, live cell capabilities, and high-end confocal optics is essential for deep phenotyping brain organoids when generated in large batches of hundreds, or for profiling other 3D neuronal models from our ever-growing cohort of patient-derived iPSCs. In this webinar, we will outline how we are combining brain organoids with automated high-content imaging to image brain development in real-time, and to test new technologies. We will describe how a brain organoid grows over time, and detail how single cell phenotyping can help us better understand the complexities and cell compositions within these brain tissues. Moreover, we will explore how spheroid models can be used in combination with microfluidics to model neuromuscular junctions, for studies in ALS. Combining these technologies will be instrumental in helping us better understand how neuronal networks develop, why neurons die, and why brain disorders develop.