Fig. 3From: In vitro modeling of the neurovascular unit: advances in the fieldSchematic representation of a 3D ECM-based in vitro BBB model. This platform enables culturing multiple cell types (related to a specific organ system) at once. The formation of natural gradients of biological factors (either introduced into the matrix and/or naturally produced by the cells in culture) promotes a host of physiological responses (including cell migration, interaction, and differentiation) culminating with the self-assembly of microvascular processes and the formation of a network of capillary-like structures in vitroBack to article page