Ultraweak hydrogels for molecular and biological functional analyses of cell-matrix and cell-cell 3D networks in neuronal cell culture systems (C05(B01))

• Subject Area: Biophysics ; Biomaterials ; Developmental Neurobiology
• Term: since 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 326998133

Within the first grant period of the SFB, 3D Matrix-scaffold composites were established composed of ultra-weak hydrogels (100-150 Pa), MEW scaffolds and single cell types (neurons, astrocytes, Glioblastoma cells). In the new grant period, we will further develop this model system to understand cell-cell interactions between primary neuronal and tumor cells. The focus of the project will be to study the influence of the extracellular environment, such as matrix, scaffold and the resulting biomechanics on tumor progression using co-cultures as well as spheroids of primary neuronal cells and tumor cells.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 225: From the fundamentals of biofabrication towards functional tissue models
• Applicant Institution: Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Paul Dalton, until 12/2021; Professor Dr. Reiner Strick; Professorin Dr. Carmen Villmann