Modeling the Science of Stress: Hesperos and Bayer Consumer Health Develop Model of Stress-Induced Cognitive Dysfunction
Orlando, Florida, October 7, 2025 — Hesperos, Inc. (Hesperos), a global leader focused on improving preclinical drug development, food, cosmetic, and chemical testing with its Human-on-a-Chip® (HoaC) single- and multi-organ systems platform, is pleased to announce the publication of a new peer-reviewed study, developed in collaboration with Bayer Consumer Health. The study introduces the first human-relevant microphysiological system (MPS) capable of modeling central nervous system (CNS) stress responses and evaluating potential therapeutic compounds. The full paper, “Developing a Functional Non-Animal CNS Stress Model Utilizing Long-Term Potentiation with Human iPSC-Cortical Neurons to Evaluate Therapeutics,” is now available in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy.
First Human-on-a-Chip® Stress Model:
Hesperos developed a human iPSC-derived cortical neuron network system to assess the effects of cortisol (the body's main stress hormone) on long-term potentiation, a key process in memory and learning.
Key Findings & Impact
- Cortisol exposure to the brain disrupted neuronal network activity and impaired long-term potentiation, a key process involved in memory and learning
- The main active alkamide found in Echinacea purpurea reversed these effects, and restored neuronal network function
Why It Matters
Stress affects nearly every aspect of human health, yet traditional animal models often fail to capture its complex impact on the brain. By using human-derived neurons, this new Human-on-a-Chip® model offers a more accurate way to study how stress contributes to cognitive decline and to identify potential treatments. This brain-on-a-chip organ system model can be used by researchers to better understand stress-induced and/or stress-related cognitive disorders and to evaluate the effectiveness (and safety) of new therapies.
“This advance demonstrates the ability of Human-on-a-Chip systems to replicate complex neurological processes such as stress-related cognitive decline, without the need for animal studies. The model provides a new tool to better understand how stress affects the brain and to screen candidate therapeutics in a biologically relevant context.”
James J. Hickman, PhD
Chief Scientist
Hesperos, Inc.
“Stress is a hallmark of the modern world and affects nearly everyone on some level. By better modeling and understanding stress at the cellular level through these innovative approaches, we can accelerate the development of effective and trusted solutions for mental health and cognitive well-being.”
Ramy Ammar, PhD
Director Science Innovation, Global R&D
Bayer Consumer Health
About Bayer
Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. In line with its mission, “Health for all, Hunger for none,” the company’s products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. For more information, go to www.bayer.com.
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