Hyderabad: Have you heard of chips with organs? Yes, these are the next generation of organoids—cell-culture models that can replicate the biological functions of real organs on a chip! The Centre for Predictive Human Model Systems (CPHMS) in Hyderabad is leading the way in this uncommon and cutting-edge field of study. They just published a database to help researchers and students learn more about organs-on-chips.
In layman’s words, organ-on-chips are tiny devices that include miniature copies of human organs like the liver, lungs, or even the heart. The ultimate goal is for organs-on-chips to be a practical substitute for conventional laboratory animal testing, which frequently raises concerns about morality and the humane treatment of animals.
In a new article on organs-on-chips, the Head of CPHMS, which is a joint endeavor between city-based Atal Hatching Center (AIC) at Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) and Humane Society International, India, Dr Kasturi Mahadik said that organs-on-chips are little (miniature) models that reproduce the design and capability of human organs in controlled lab conditions.
According to the Director in the CCMB article, several stakeholders would gain from the recently made available database of organs-on-chips. The site can be a useful tool for Indian funding and regulatory organisations, in addition to being beneficial to scientists and students. It will be essential for deliberating on policies and allocating funds in an efficient manner, according to Dr. Kasturi.
Within the life sciences industry, CPHMS is leading the way in creating and advancing organ-in-chips technology in India and aggressively pushing for research and funding in human-based, non-animal methodology (NAMs). The centre also offers training courses and seminars to provide researchers the know-how to use this cutting-edge equipment.
Conventional drug research via animal experimentation can be costly, time-consuming, and can produce false positives. On the other hand, organs-on-chips provide a viable substitute as they include live human cells organised to resemble the composition and capabilities of actual organs. By simulating blood flow and other physiological processes, researchers may test prospective medications in a more realistic setting thanks to these apps.
-Raja Aditya
