Inducing Mechanical Stimuli to Tissues Grown on a Magnetic Gel Allows Deconvoluting the Forces Leading to Traumatic Brain Injury

Luise Schlotterose, Megane Beldjilali-Labro, Mario Hagel, Moran Yadid, Carina Flaxer, Eli Flaxer, A. Ronny Barnea, Kirsten Hattermann, Esther Shohami, Yael Leichtmann-Bardoogo, Ben M. Maoz*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Traumatic brain injury (TBI), which is characterized by damage to the brain resulting from a sudden traumatic event, is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. It has short- and long-term effects, including neuroinflammation, cognitive deficits, and depression. TBI consists of multiple steps that may sometimes have opposing effects or mechanisms, making it challenging to investigate and translate new knowledge into effective therapies. In order to better understand and address the underlying mechanisms of TBI, we have developed an in vitro platform that allows dynamic simulation of TBI conditions by applying external magnetic forces to induce acceleration and deceleration injury, which is often observed in human TBI. Endothelial and neuron-like cells were successfully grown on magnetic gels and applied to the platform. Both cell types showed an instant response to the TBI model, but the endothelial cells were able to recover quickly - in contrast to the neuron-like cells. In conclusion, the presented in vitro model mimics the mechanical processes of acceleration/deceleration injury involved in TBI and will be a valuable resource for further research on brain injury.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)560-572
Number of pages13
JournalNeurotrauma Reports
Volume4
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Aug 2023

Funding

FundersFunder number
Aufzien Family Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Parkinson's Disease
Zimin Foundation
Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Medical Research Foundation
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries
European Commission851765
Deutsche ForschungsgemeinschaftGRK2154
Israel Science Foundation2248/19, 1934/23
Azrieli Foundation
Ministry of Science and Technology, Israel3-17351

    Keywords

    • acceleration-deacceleration
    • in vitro TBI
    • in vitro models
    • neurovascular unit
    • tension and compression

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