Nervous system tissue engineering
The Phillips lab uses tissue engineering principles to model and to repair the nervous system.

The group specialises in building artificial neural tissues by growing nervous system cells in a 3-dimensional environment. These engineered neural tissues can be adapted using specific cells, extracellular matrix, chemical signals and biomechanical cues in order to provide laboratory models for neuroscience research, or implantable grafts for use in regenerative medicine.

1. Nervous system models
A range of models have been developed and can be tailored to mimic specific aspects of the central and peripheral nervous systems. The culture models tend to be made using 3D hydrogels, providing a more realistic spatial environment for neurons and glial cells than traditional 2D culture systems. They allow continuous observation and controlled manipulation, thereby facilitating analysis of cellular interactions. They complement in vivo models which generally allow only snapshot views and offer limited scope for controlling complex variables.

2. Nervous system repair
Regenerative medicine and tissue engineering provide opportunities to repair the damaged nervous system. This can involve the use of cell, drug and gene therapies and the construction of living artificial nervous system tissue to encourage growth of host neurons through an area of damage. The potential Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs) developed by the lab often include aligned materials and glial cells in order to guide and support regenerating neurons. They need to be made from materials and cells suitable for safe therapeutic use, and as well as promoting neuronal growth they must restore the biomechanical functionality of the tissue.

For more information please take a look at our publications or visit www.jamesphillips.org