Speaker
Description
The human nervous system is one of the most complex to model in vitro. It encompasses the largest diversity of cell types, with the most intricate ‘hub-and-spoke’ networks. Advancements in stem cell biology have enabled development of more sophisticated 3D models of the ‘hub’, i.e. central nervous system, with the emergence of organoids and assembloids. However, 3D models of the ‘spoke’ component, i.e. peripheral nervous system, are less developed. This is partly due the challenges of modelling distinct sensory neuronal responses that are induced by their innervation and functional interactions with an end organ. Here I discuss the convergence of advancing technologies in stem cell biology, genetic engineering and bioprinting to model neuronal-tissue interactions, particularly relating to mechanosensory neurophysiology within the skin and muscle tissues. Specifically, I will focus on the value of having functionally relevant neuronal and cellular tissue cell types to refine model development and enable their application to study human neurophysiology in healthy and diseased states.