A technology revolutionizes biomedical research by creating micro-scale models of human organs on silicon chips. These microfluidic systems replicate the physiological functions of real organs, enabling scientists to study drug responses, disease mechanisms, and toxicity in a controlled environment. OOACs offer advantages like reduced cost, ethical considerations ( Garcia et al., 2024 ), and quicker results compared to animal testing. Researchers can customize these chips to mimic specific organs and diseases, advancing drug development and personalized medicine. This innovative approach holds promise for accelerating medical breakthroughs and minimizing the need for animal experimentation.
Published in Chapter:
Emergent Applications of Organ-on-a-Chip (OOAC) Technologies With Artificial Vascular Networks in the 21st Century
Ranjit Barua (Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Shibpur, India), Nirmalendu Biswas (Jadavpur University, India), and Deepanjan Das (Jadavpur University, India)
Copyright: © 2024
|Pages: 22
DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3693-1214-8.ch010
Abstract
The organ-on-a-chip (OOAC) technology stands at the forefront of emergent technologies, representing a biomimetic configuration of functional organs on a microfluidic chip. This technology synergizes biomedical engineering, cell biology, and biomaterial technology to mimic the microenvironment of specific organs. It effectively replicates the biomechanical and biological soft tissue interfaces, enabling the simulation of organ functionality and responses to various stimuli, including drug reactions and environmental effects. OOAC has vast implications for precision medicine and biological defense strategies. In this chapter, the authors delve into the principles of OOAC, exploring its role in creating physiological models and discussing its advantages, current challenges, and prospects. This examination is significant as it highlights the transformative potential of OOAC technologies in the 21st century and contributes to a deeper understanding of OOAC's applications in advancing medical research.