The ascendance of microphysiological systems to solve the drug testing dilemma

• Published in: Future science OA 2017-05, Vol.3 (2), p.FSO185-FSO185
• Main Authors: Dehne, Eva-Maria, Hasenberg, Tobias, Marx, Uwe
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: body-on-a-chip; drug testing; human-on-a-chip; microphysiological system; multi-organ-chip; Review
• ISSN: 2056-5623; 2056-5623
• DOI: 10.4155/fsoa-2017-0002

The development of drugs is a process obstructed with manifold security and efficacy concerns. Although animal models are still widely used to meet the diligence required, they are regarded as outdated tools with limited predictability. Novel microphysiological systems intend to create systemic models of human biology. Their ability to host 3D organoid constructs in a controlled microenvironment with mechanical and electrophysiological stimuli enables them to create and maintain homeostasis. These platforms are, thus, envisioned to be superior tools for testing and developing substances such as drugs, cosmetics and chemicals. We will present reasons why microphysiological systems are required for the emerging demands, highlight current technological and regulatory obstacles, and depict possible solutions from state-of-the-art platforms from major contributors. Microphysiological systems are devices constructed for the cocultivation of miniaturized human organ equivalents. They are commonly placed into a continuous stream of nutrient solution. The microphysiological tools aim to reshape current development, toxicity testing and efficacy assessment of therapeutic agents, food additives, chemicals and environmental pollutants. We are on the verge of initiating a paradigm shift away from established, but often misleading animal and single tissue culture techniques toward the generation of predictive data for a compound's safety and efficacy prior to its exposure to humans.