What is organ-on-a-chip technology?

Organ‑on‑a‑chip (OoC) refers to microfabrication processes used to produce miniature models of organs such as the heart, lungs or intestines. Cells are arranged on pre-fabricated polymer or plastic substrates and cultivated in such a way that they form organ-like tissues.

The cells are supplied with nutrients, oxygen or air by fine microfluidic channels, which also generate flows and concentration gradients similar to those found in the body. Mechanical influences and interactions between different cell types can then also be simulated. The result is models that provide realistic and reliable data for disease research and drug testing.

How bioprinting is transforming drug testing

Medical research is constantly seeking new drugs in the fight against disease. They take a long time to be developed and the process is very expensive. A drug candidate first undergoes several preclinical trials using cell cultures (in vitro) or animals (in vivo).

The final stage before approval involves clinical trials in humans. On average, five drug candidates are tested for each drug, four of which ultimately fail – so-called late-stage failures. The reason is that the results of preclinical studies often do not translate well to the human body.

Much better results can be achieved using organs-on-a-chip produced by a bioprinter. With these small pieces of human tissue on a microfluidic chip the efficacy and side effects of drugs can be tested more accurately in preclinical studies. This means that unsuitable candidates are weeded out at a much earlier stage. This saves time and money, and means that new drugs can be developed more quickly and cost-effectively.

Precise fluid control for tissue engineering

Festo, in collaboration with experts from the Technical University of Darmstadt, is now demonstrating how the bioprinting process can be automated. This includes a solution for the contactless transport of microfluidic chips equipped with bonded manifold technology. Multi-layer polymer distribution plates with their finely structured microchannels enable liquids to be precisely dispensed and handled.

SupraMotion: contactless operation in the laboratory of the future

The unique superconductor technology from Festo enables objects to be transported without any contact. The kinematic system remains outside the cleanroom and does not spread any particles. The sleek surfaces are easy to clean. This innovative technology can be combined with automation solutions for the life sciences sector to form a reliable, complete solution that meets the most stringent requirements for cleaning and hygiene.