Lab-on-a-chip systems for modelling peripheral nerve injury and neurodegenerative disease: state of the art and beyond

Abstract

Lab-on-a-chip (LoC) systems have emerged as powerful tools for modelling peripheral nerve injury and neurodegenerative disease, offering advantages over traditional in vitro and in vivo models. Microfluidic devices enable the controlled manipulation of the neuronal environment, the visualization of single-cell behaviour, and the quantification of neuron-glia interactions. Recent advancements include the peripheral nerve injury-on-a-chip, which combines aligned nanofibers with microfluidics for high-speed screening of biomaterials and drugs to enhance nerve regeneration. These platforms allow for studying axonal biology, regeneration processes, and the effects of topographical cues on axonal growth. Additionally, LoC devices have been developed to model neurodegenerative disorders of the peripheral nervous system, facilitating drug discovery and mechanistic studies. The review examines the anatomy of peripheral nerve tissue and explores the current understanding of the biochemical processes involved in the body’s response to nerve damage. Next, it discusses recent advancements in modelling transection injuries and neurodegenerative diseases in the peripheral nervous system using LoC systems. Finally, the review addresses the current limitations of these models, explores potential solutions, and highlights future directions for developing more sophisticated and physiologically relevant LoC models for neural tissue engineering research and the development of potential therapies for peripheral nerve injuries and neurodegenerative disease.

Graphical abstract

Lab-on-a-chip (LoC) systems represent a significant advancement in modeling peripheral nerve injuries and neurodegenerative diseases. These platforms enable precise manipulation of neuronal environments and single-cell analysis, enhancing studies on nerve regeneration. The review discusses advancements in modeling transection injuries and neurodegenerative diseases with LoC systems, addressing limitations, potential solutions, and future directions for better neural tissue engineering and therapy development.