Vascular diseases pose a significant burden on society, mainly due to the lack of effective treatment methods. A major reason for this is the shortcomings of current preclinical model systems. In... Show moreVascular diseases pose a significant burden on society, mainly due to the lack of effective treatment methods. A major reason for this is the shortcomings of current preclinical model systems. In this study, we have taken steps toward developing a more complex and relevant model system for (brain) blood vessels to address this issue. We used human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) in the lab as a cellular source to generate the different types of cells needed for stable blood vessels. These cells were then combined in 3D microscopic culture environments (so-called vessel-on-chip systems) to closely mimic physiological conditions. Using this model, we were able to demonstrate specific abnormalities in a hereditary vascular disease, which was not possible with more 'traditional' culture methods. Additionally, we included brain cells to better investigate brain-specific disorders in the future. This work lays the essential foundation for a better understanding and treatment of complex vascular diseases, while potentially reducing the number of animal models needed. Show less
