Hydrogels with tunable characteristics to simulate the neuronal environment

The neuronal system is complex by nature, which implies a slow progression in the knowledge of the mechanisms of different diseases, and, therefore, a slow development of therapies, and drugs. However, both neurodegenerative diseases and acute injuries result in the loss of functions of the central nervous system (CNS). The use of hydrogels as bioinks in tissue engineering applied to neuronal tissue allows for mimicking the neuronal physiological environment, regulating cellular behavior, and supporting regeneration. [1] The variation of properties in tunable hydrogels allows the hydrogel to be adapted to different applications, whether for printing a scaffold or for extrusion into a microphysiological device.[2][3] The 3D scaffolds provide the physical support necessary to facilitate cellular function while the use of said hydrogels as an extracellular matrix in microphysiological devices allows long survival, adhesion, and growth facilitated by the neuroprotective nature of the hydrogel.