Microfluidic Neuromuscular Junction (NMJ) Model Development
Neuromuscular junction (NMJ) models provide a versatile platform for studying synaptic activity, axonal growth, and muscle-nerve interactions. Protheragen boasts a skilled team of researchers and scientists with profound proficiency in the realm of microfluidic neuromuscular junction (NMJ) models. Committed to pioneering cutting-edge NMJ models, they are tailored to address the distinct requirements of our clientele.
Introduction to Microfluidic Neuromuscular Junction (NMJ) Models
The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a critical synaptic connection between motor neurons and skeletal muscle fibers, and its dysfunction is the root cause of many rare neurological diseases, including spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS). The microfluidic NMJ models offer unique advancements in neuromuscular research as they provide control over the synaptic microenvironment for studying the development, pathology, and function of NMJ.
Fig.1 Schematic presentation of a neuromuscular junction (NMJ) and the molecules involved in its development. (Campanari M L, et al., 2016)
Advantages of Microfluidic Neuromuscular Junction (NMJ) Models
The functional and practical applications of traditional neuromuscular junction (NMJ) models are very limited due to their failure to consider the complex 3D forms as well as the dynamic interactions of various cells at such a specialized synapse. The microfluidic NMJ model overcomes these limitations by providing separate chambers for the defined control of axon extension and 3D architecture of muscle fibers comprising patient-derived cells, as well as live monitoring of synaptic activity. Such features facilitate long-term studies of the physiologically relevant processes of NMJ formation, maintenance, and functional impairment that can be applied in disease modeling, drug discovery, and personalized medicine.
Fig.2 The different established neuromuscular junction (NMJ) models derived from pluripotent stem cell differentiation. (Gazzola M, Martinat C., 2023)
Our Services
Protheragen specializes as a preclinical research services provider in creating advanced microfluidic neuromuscular junction (NMJ) models for the purpose of rapidly developing therapeutic strategies for rare motor neuron diseases. The microfluidic systems enable us to precisely emulate the structure and function of the human NMJ. These models, when integrated with patient-derived cells and disease-specific mutations, permit sophisticated drug screening and validation with respect to their mechanisms of action and toxicology.
Microfluidic NMJ Model Development Services
Focusing on the development of advanced microfluidic neuromuscular junction (NMJ) models, Protheragen offers end-to-end solutions. From design and fabrication to validation and functional testing, we provide expert support at every stage, ensuring high accuracy, physiological relevance and scalability.
- Custom Microfluidic NMJ Chip Design
- Fabrication & Prototyping
- Cell Sourcing & Culture Optimization
- Biomaterial Integration
- Electrophysiological & Functional Assays
- Data Analysis & AI-Driven Modeling
Types of Microfluidic NMJ Models
Protheragen offers a wide range of microfluidic neuromuscular junction (NMJ) models tailored to specific research requirements in neuromuscular disease studies. The offered portfolio ranges from fundamental analysis of synaptic functions to sophisticated, patient-specific disease modeling, equipping researchers with relevant pathophysiological in vitro models.
- Compartmentalized 2D NMJ Models
- 3D Myofiber-Integrated NMJ Models
- Disease-Specific NMJ Models
- Other Models
Applications of Microfluidic NMJ Models
Because of their accuracy to physiology, real time monitoring capabilities, and customization for specific ailments, the microfluidic models of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) are appropriate for diversified applications ranging from drug development and tailored therapies, to specialized neuromuscular research.
- Drug Discovery & Screening
- Toxicity & Safety Pharmacology
- Regenerative Medicine & Reinnervation Studies
- Biomarker & Mechanism Research
Using Protheragen's specific microfluidic NMJ models that adhere to international ethical guidelines and regulations, we offer specialized pharmacodynamics (PD), pharmacokinetic (PK), and toxicology research services. The goal is to further the development of therapies for rare neurological disorders. For more details and quotes regarding our services, do not hesitate to reach out to us.
References
- Campanari M L, García-Ayllón M S, Ciura S, et al. Neuromuscular junction impairment in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: reassessing the role of acetylcholinesterase[J]. Frontiers in molecular neuroscience, 2016, 9: 160.
- Gazzola M, Martinat C. Unlocking the complexity of neuromuscular diseases: insights from human pluripotent stem cell-derived neuromuscular junctions[J]. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2023, 24(20): 15291.