3D-printed lab-on-chip platforms for the detection of neurodegenerative diseases: opportunities and challenges

Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS remain some of the most challenging disorders to diagnose at an early stage. Conventional approaches rely on costly neuroimaging or invasive cerebrospinal fluid sampling, which limit accessibility and early intervention. Recent advances in 3D printing have enabled rapid prototyping of lab-on-chip (LOC) platforms that integrate microfluidics, biosensors, and biological models to detect disease-specific biomarkers with high sensitivity and throughput. Herein, we explore the synergistic role of 3D printing technologies and biomaterials in fabricating LOC systems for NDs. We highlight key biomarkers, and neuron- and organoid-on-chip platforms, and discuss the challenges and opportunities in clinical translation. By combining technical innovation in additive manufacturing with biological relevance, 3D-printed LOC devices represent a transformative approach toward precision diagnostics in neuro-medicine.