Bioengineering

MENU Bioengineering
«Mini-brains» based on human stem cells placed on an electrode array
«Mini-brains» based on human stem cells placed on an electrode array
Microsystems and biological interfaces
Microsystems and biological interfaces
Histological section of «Mini-Brains»
Histological section of «Mini-Brains»
Immunological labelling of human neurons from reprogrammed stem cells
Immunological labelling of human neurons from reprogrammed stem cells
Immunological labelling of «Mini-brains»
Immunological labelling of «Mini-brains»

Bioengineering group

The Bioengineering group is located in the Campus Biotech in Geneva, the new ecosystem around Lake Léman for life sciences.

The group is developing biological models and technical tools for evaluating the functional and/or toxicological effect of substances on the brain.

For this, it has developed a 3-dimensional«mini-brain» model in vitro, from reprogrammed human stem cells. This model limits the use of laboratory animals in research.

This platform for measuring electrical activity, based on networks of electrodes, also includes fluidics and imaging. It enables experiments to be carried out under conditions that are as physiological as possible for the cells. Thanks to these conditions, the tissues can be maintained in culture over long periods (several months) during which measurements are continuously taken.

The group collaborates closely with industrial and academic players through the intermediary of various types of projects such as InnoSuisse, European, HES-SO or the provision of services.

Main research topics

  • tests for neurotoxicity and biocompatibility
  • new types of electrodes
  • new systems for the acquisition of electrophysiological signals and their analysis tools
  • system for the measurement of the integrity of biological barriers based on bio-impedance