Screening-compatible microfluidic model for amyloid beta phagocytosis in alzheimer's
The DISCO platform offers a novel microfluidic model to study astrocyte and microglia interaction in amyloid beta clearance, providing a basis for therapeutic screening in Alzheimer's disease. This model enhances understanding of cellular mechanisms, aiding drug discovery.
Overview
The DISCO (Digital microfluidic Isolation of Single Cells for -Omics) platform presents a cutting-edge microfluidic model designed to elucidate the coordinated phagocytic activity of astrocytes and microglia in Alzheimer's disease (AD). This innovative system aims to advance our understanding of how these cell types collaborate to clear amyloid beta plaques, a hallmark of AD pathology. By leveraging this technology, researchers can identify novel therapeutic targets to enhance amyloid beta clearance, offering significant potential in AD treatment strategies.
Technical specifications
The DISCO platform is a miniaturized single-cell analysis system that integrates image-based morphological data with -omics profiles. It allows for the detailed study of phagocytic processes in microglia and astrocytes within a 1 μL culture environment. This system facilitates the investigation of cellular interactions and gene expression changes associated with amyloid beta clearance. Key features include:
- High sensitivity and specificity in capturing candidate pathways for phagocytosis
- Compatibility with in vitro and in vivo AD models
- Capability to conduct drug screening assays with therapeutics targeting identified pathways
Technology readiness level
The DISCO technology is currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, indicating that it has been demonstrated in a controlled research environment. Future validation will involve further in vitro and in vivo studies to refine its application for drug discovery and therapeutic target identification.
About University of Toronto
The University of Toronto is a comprehensive public research university with three campuses in the Toronto region and a globally scaled research enterprise. Its downtown footprint is embedded within a major academic health network and an adjacent innovation district, enabling co-located labs, clinical trials, and rapid testing with end users. Companies connect through co-op and long-duration internships, sponsored research, and access to shared core facilities and prototyping resources. Research is supported by Canada’s Tri‑Agency (NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC) and the Canada Foundation for Innovation, alongside provincial programs and industry partnerships. A dedicated technology transfer office provides IP management, licensing, and startup support through a coordinated entrepreneurship network.
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