RealBrain® Technology
Scalable 3D neural models that replicate essential features of the human brain.
Technology That Unlocks Human Neuroscience
RealBrain® Platform
Tessara’s RealBrain® platform uses a proprietary synthetic hydrogel that forms a brain-like extracellular matrix (ECM), providing neural stem cells with the structure they need to thrive. Engineered for optimal stiffness and gelation, it supports rapid network formation and allows cells to build their own ECM. With consistent, scalable manufacturing and low batch variation, RealBrain® ensures reliability at every stage, with specialised models—ArtiBrain™ for healthy baseline conditions and ADBrain™ for Alzheimer’s disease.
ArtiBrain™ - Healthy Human 3D micro-tissue
ADBrain™ - Alzheimer’s disease 3D micro-tissue (green represents Amyloid-β42 accumulation)
Matrix-Guided Self-Assembly of Neural Micro-Tissues
Standardised. Scalable. Predictive.
RealBrain® micro-tissues, from human iPSC-derived neural stem cells, differentiate and self-organise into stable 3D networks of neurons and glial cells within a self-secreted matrix, supporting electrical activity and synaptic function. Each well contains a single, uniform micro-tissue, enabling consistent results and scalable high-throughput drug discovery in standard microplate formats.
Chemically defined RealBrain® Matrix mimics CNS biological cues.
Promotes stem cell differentiation and natural ECM secretion.
Fully remodelled by cells during maturation.
RealBrain® Matrix
Matrix drives secretion of natural ECM, replacing synthetic polymers.
Natural ECM stores signalling molecules.
These signals regulate stem cell growth and differentiation.
Developing Networks
Forming extensive neuronal networks, diverse neuronal cell types, mimicking in-vivo tissue.
Cortical-like patterning and sulci.
Matrix replaced by cell-secreted ECM.
Mature Micro-Tissues
Drug Discovery Driven by Cellular Diversity
RealBrain® micro-tissues contain a single population of Neural Stem Cells that differentiate and give rise to a heterogeneous population of brain cells that self-organise into functional networks of multiple neuronal subtypes and glial cells. This cellular diversity mirrors the complexity of the human brain, enabling more accurate modelling of neural activity, support functions, and drug responses. Key neuronal and glial markers are consistently detected, confirming the identity and functionality of the cells within these networks.
Chemically defined matrix drives development of RealBrain® micro-tissues, supporting synaptic maturity with functional pre- and post-synaptic markers. Networks respond to neurotransmitters including acetylcholine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, and display K⁺ and Na⁺ currents across physiological membrane potentials. Data science meets physiological relevance to enhance efficacy and safety predictions through reproducible biology and advanced imaging or biochemical analysis.
Predictive Neural Models for Drug Discovery
Matrix. Functionality. Analytics.
RealBrain® models form in a chemically defined Matrix that supports the development of a heterogeneous, functional neural population.
Promotes neural differentiation and ECM remodelling by cells.
Mature models contain diverse cell types within a fully natural ECM.
Chemically defined matrix
Synaptic maturity: Functional synapses with pre- & post-synaptic markers.
Responsiveness: Neurotransmitters including acetylcholine, serotonin, norepinephrine.
Voltage gated channels: K+ and Na+ currents across a range of membrane potentials.
RealBrain® Day 21 - β(III)-tubulin
RealBrain® Calcium imaging
Data science meets physiology: RealBrain® combines reproducible micro-tissues with advanced analytics.
Improves efficacy and safety assessment with human-relevant biology.
Supports image-based and biochemical endpoints for robust analysis.
High-throughput manufacturing
RealBrain® micro-tissues are produced in an automated process offering high scalability and reproducibility