Current Strategies and Technologies in Neural Tissue Modelling

Neural tissue modeling is a rapidly evolving field crucial for understanding neurological disorders, drug discovery, and regenerative medicine. Traditional 2D cell cultures often fail to recapitulate the intricate complexity of the native neural microenvironment, including its biochemical, mechanical, and electrical cues. Recent advancements in tissue engineering, particularly 3D bioprinting, hydrogel-based scaffolds, and self-assembled organoids, are revolutionizing our ability to create more physiologically relevant models. This special issue aims to highlight the cutting-edge strategies and technologies employed to overcome the inherent challenges in neural tissue modeling, paving the way for improved insights into neurophysiology and the development of novel therapeutics.

This special issue aims to serve as a comprehensive resource for the latest advancements in neural tissue modeling. Its primary goal is to showcase innovative strategies and technologies that enable the creation of increasingly complex and physiologically relevant in vitro and ex vivo neural models. We seek to highlight research that addresses the challenges of recapitulating the intricate architecture, cellular diversity, and functional connectivity of the nervous system. By bringing together cutting-edge work in areas such as 3D bioprinting, organoid development, microfluidics, and the integration of diverse biomaterials, we hope to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and accelerate the translation of these models into practical applications for disease understanding, drug screening, and the development of regenerative therapies for neurological conditions. This issue will serve as a valuable reference for researchers seeking to push the boundaries of neural tissue engineering and develop more effective solutions for brain and spinal cord disorders.

This Research Topic welcomes articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
• Advanced biomaterials for neural scaffolds
• Innovations in 3D bioprinting and biofabrication of neural constructs
• Development and application of neural organoids and spheroids
• Implementation of neural organs-on-chips for research
• Modeling of neurological diseases and disorders
• Neural-glial interactions and other multi-cellular interactions
• Methods for functional assessment and characterization of neural models
• Integration of biosensors and bioelectronics in neural models
• Strategies for neural tissue regeneration and repair
• Utilization of in silico models for neural research
• Contributions towards drug discovery