Developing a novel neuronal device for Multiple Sclerosis studies

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neuroinflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS). Demyelination involves the loss of myelin, which impairs the nerve conduction velocity, and it is observed in MS. This occurs because the myelin no longer forms distinct internodes, known as the nodes of Ranvier, and therefore affects saltatory conduction. The myelin sheath in the CNS is formed by oligodendrocytes, which are a type of glial cell.
Currently, therapies only focus on the inflammatory aspect of MS. However, new advancements in the form of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), multielectrode arrays and microfluidics have led to studying MS in several new ways. This will allow novel therapies to arise that will also target the neurodegenerative aspect of MS.
The aim of my project is to develop a novel human in-vitro model for MS that will aid in investigating human neuron myelination. Several custom arrays with stimulating and recording electrodes have been fabricated. Issues with long term culture of human neurons on these arrays have been identified and are being addressed. However, there have been no issues with the culture of mouse neurons on the arrays and initial results show the expected outcome with the addition of certain drugs.