Culturing of organized 3D networks of neuronal cells is provided. Individual neuronal cells are encapsulated in gel beads. The gel beads are self-assembled into ordered structures in a bioreactor. Subsequent culturing of the cells in the bioreactor leads to the formation of an organized 3D network of the neuronal cells. Such structures have many applications, especially for as says of neuronal network function and/or structure.
3D spatially organized cultured neuronal tissue by means of stacking beads comprising hydrogel encapsulated cells