This scientific poster presents the development of a microfluidic platform designed to model synaptic transmission and study intercellular communication mechanisms in vitro. Presented at Neurocampus Baikal 2026 by researchers affiliated with Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Alferov University, LIFT Center, and the Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, the project aims to improve preclinical drug testing by creating more accurate cellular microenvironments through the integration of microfluidics and microiontophoresis.
The underlying technology relies on a silicon chip equipped with a transparent silicon nitride nanoporous membrane. Coating this membrane with poly-L-lysine maintains electrical conductivity while providing a favorable environment for neural cell adhesion and growth, which was validated using mammalian cells and primary hippocampal cultures. In the test setup, a two-chamber system separates serotonin in the lower chamber from cells expressing serotonin receptors in the upper chamber. Neuromediator transport across the nanopores is actively regulated by applying an external voltage of up to three hundred millivolts, and cellular responses are tracked via fluorescent calcium imaging using Fluo-4.
Results confirm both passive diffusion and precise, electrically driven transport, release, and retention of neurotransmitters across the membrane. The authors introduced a user-friendly microfluidic chamber design that simplifies assembly and improves experimental reproducibility. Looking forward, the researchers plan to refine the electrically controlled transport system, implement a closed recirculating perfusion network, validate the platform with additional neurotransmitters such as dopamine, glutamate, and GABA, and build a modular experimental setup offering integrated chemical, optical, and electrical control over cell signaling.