A newly developed platform aims to create a high-fidelity 4D model of the human spinal cord using advanced bioprinting techniques and patient-derived cells.
Developed with funding from the ERC Consolidator Grant, the SPINECRAFT platform will create a cutting-edge, 4D human spinal cord construct that mirrors the architecture and functionality of the real spinal cord.
This ambitious approach represents a paradigm shift in central nervous system (CNS) research. SPINECRAFT will set new standards in tissue engineering and open doors to breakthroughs in neurodegenerative disease modelling and regenerative therapies –pushing the boundaries of what is possible in neuroscience.
“We finally have the tools to ask questions that were previously inaccessible – and move closer to real treatments for patients,” stated Zaida Álvarez Pinto, Principal Investigator at the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), who was awarded the ERC Grant.
Limitations of current central nervous system models
Current laboratory models of the CNS struggle to replicate its extraordinary complexity, limiting progress in understanding neurological and neurodegenerative diseases.
Traditional 2D cultures, 3D organoids and animal models fall short of capturing the intricate structure and dynamic function of the CNS, slowing advances in neuroscience.
SPINECRAFT aims to change this. By combining advanced imaging, computational modelling, bioprinting and innovative bioinks, researchers will fabricate a high-fidelity model populated with human neural and vascular cells.
This platform will not only enable detailed studies of spinal cord biology but also integrate patient-derived cells to recreate disease-specific environments, such as those seen in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Paving the way for new spinal cord therapies
Álvarez explained: “This recognition marks a pivotal moment for our research and for the field of spinal cord regeneration.
“With SPINECRAFT, we expect to generate a high-fidelity human model that will allow us to study disease mechanisms with unprecedented resolution and pave the way for new therapeutic strategies.”
Álvarez is part of the 11.3% of selected candidates across Europe, chosen from among 3121 proposals received in this call.
The project’s disruptive originality enabled it to secure an additional €800,000, beyond the standard €2m from the call, dedicated to acquiring specialised equipment for multi-cellular bioprinting and advanced functional analysis.
This strategic investment positions IBEC at the forefront of 4D human spinal cord modelling, accelerating the transformative potential of SPINECRAFT.
