Engineering Biomaterials for Neural Applications

This contributed volume explores the ways in which researchers engineer new biomaterials for the challenging problems of the peripheral and central nervous systems. These biomaterials are uniquely positioned for use in creating in vitro models of injury and disease, testing therapeutic treatments, understanding neural development, and mapping the multi-scalar environment of the brain. This book informs readers from biology, chemistry, materials science, engineering, and neuroscience on cutting edge research in engineering technologies, from fundamental material development through pre-clinical studies. The book also highlights target applications in three areas of research: (1) engineering neural models and materials, (2) probing biological underpinnings of neurological function and disease, and (3) designing therapeutic and diagnostic treatments for neurological disease. 

Module 1: Engineering neural models and materials

Chapter 1. Scaffolds for promoting neural repair (David Nisbet, Australian National University)

Chapter 2. Composites for nerve regeneration (Narayan Bhattarai, NC A&T)

Chapter 3. Configurable models of the blood-brain barrier (Monica Moya, Lawrence Livermore)

Chapter 4. Engineering nerve conduits

Chapter 5. Flexible electronics for stem cell differentiation (Jonathan Claussen, Iowa State)

Module 2: Probing biological underpinnings of neurological function and disease

Chapter 6. Nanosensors for brain chemistry (Markita Landry, UC Berkeley)

Chapter 7. Nanomaterials for imaging the brain ECS (Laurent Cognet, University of Bordeaux)

Chapter 8. Microfluidics for analysis of neuronal development (Martha Gillette, Univ Illinois Urbana-Champagne)

Chapter 9. Multiple particle tracking measurements of extracellular matrix dysregulation (Elizabeth Nance, University of Washington)

Module 3: Designing therapeutic and diagnostic interventions for neurological disease

Chapter 10. Bioresponsive nanomaterials for treatment of CNS disease (Ester Kwon, UCSD)

Chapter 11. Redox regulation for controlling cell fate (Kyle Lampe, UVA)

Chapter 12. Polymersome delivery of CRISPR-based therapies (Jessica Larsen, Clemson)

Chapter 13. Multifunctional polymers for targeted delivery (Suzie Pun, UW)

Chapter 14. Theranostic nanomaterials for brain injury (Forrest Kievit, University of Nebraska-Lincoln)