 Alzheimer's disease, AD, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain. These plaques and tangles are believed to be responsible for the cognitive decline seen in AD patients. However, the exact mechanism behind the formation of these plaques and tangles remains unclear. In order to better understand the underlying causes of AD, researchers have developed 3D cellular models of AD using human neural cells embedded in a hydrogel matrix. These models mimic the structural and functional aspects of the brain, allowing researchers to observe the progression of AD in a more realistic environment. The hydrogel matrix provides a scaffold for the cells to grow and interact with each other, while the extracellular matrix, ECM, within the hydrogel provides a physical barrier between the cells. As the cells age, they begin to exhibit similar pathological hallmarks as those found in AD patients, such as increased levels of amyloid beta and tau proteins, as well as inflammatory responses. This suggests that the ECM properties of the hydrogel play a significant role. This article was authored by Matthias Hebisch, Stephanie Klostermeier, Katerina Wolfe, and others.