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“Multi-Organ-on-a-Chip” for Drug Testing Applications
  • +3
  • Li Qiao,
  • Shiqi Chang,
  • Kai-Yun Qu,
  • Lin Zou,
  • Feng Zhang,
  • Ningping Huang
Li Qiao
Southeast University
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Shiqi Chang
Southeast University
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Kai-Yun Qu
Southeast University
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Lin Zou
Southeast University
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Feng Zhang
Nanjing Medical University

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Ningping Huang
Southeast University
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Abstract

Drug discovery and testing is a lengthy process that is essential before human clinical trials. Animal models are vital in preclinical drug assessment, yet ethical concerns and species variations persist. Although cell-based models are used, they struggle to precisely predict drug efficacy, toxicity, and organ interactions due to cultured cells’ inability to maintain original functions and structures in typical in vitro systems. To overcome these limitations, the emerging technology of organ-on-a-chip is being developed as an alternative to traditional preclinical drug testing models. The implementation of organ-on-a-chip technology holds great potential in significantly enhancing the accuracy and efficacy of preclinical testing, thereby enabling more precise prediction of a drug’s performance in clinical trials. Moreover, the development of multi-organ-on-a-chip (MOC) systems enables the replication of various organs in vitro, making the study of drug-body interactions possible. In this review, we first introduce the design of organ-on-a-chip devices. Subsequently, we describe the applications of different tissue co-culture configurations in organ-on-a-chip for drug testing. Finally, we summarize the challenges and prospects associated with organ-on-a-chip technology. In conclusion, this review provides a comprehensive overview of organ-on-a-chip technology, multi-organ-on-a-chip for drug testing, and the challenges and prospects for the future.
09 Mar 2024Submitted to Exploration
13 Mar 2024Assigned to Editor
13 Mar 2024Submission Checks Completed
14 Mar 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned
24 Mar 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending