Principal Investigator
Houman Savoji
CHU Sainte-Justine
Project of $802,606 over 2 years
- Supported by CQDM through:
Ministère de l’Économie, de l’Innovation et de l’Énergie du Québec (MEIE) - And by co-funding partners:
– VascuBio Innovation inc.
– Epiloid Biotechnology
– Pfizer Canada
Challenge
Modern neurological drug development faces a significant challenge, with a 94% failure rate, primarily due to the poor translation of results from animal models to human clinical trials. Current brain organoid models, derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), offer a promising alternative for studying neurological diseases. However, these organoids lack vascularization, limiting their size, maturity, and physiological relevance, which hinders their effectiveness in disease modeling and drug screening.
Solution
Our project proposes the development of a 3D-printed chip designed to promote vascularization within brain organoids, enhancing their growth and complexity. This chip, optimized for angiogenesis, will create a more physiologically relevant environment for the organoids, allowing for better modeling of human brain function. We will generate brain organoids from hiPSCs, induce hyperexcitability to mimic epilepsy, and then utilize the angiogenesis-primed chip to support the development of vascularized organoids. These organoids will be used to conduct anti-epileptic drug screening, with data analyzed through machine learning to assess drug efficacy.
Expected Achievements /Impacts
The project is expected to produce vascularized brain organoids that more accurately replicate human brain physiology, significantly advancing the study of neurological diseases. These organoids will serve as a powerful tool for drug development, potentially reducing the high failure rate in clinical trials. For stakeholders, including Epiloid Biotechnology and VascuBio Innovation, this project will enhance their technological capabilities and provide a competitive edge in the field of organoid research. The anticipated benefits for the province of Québec include establishing the region as a leader in cutting-edge neurological research, fostering innovation, and creating opportunities for collaboration and economic growth.
