Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWS
The challenge in growing complex tissue cultures is to integrate channels for supplying oxygen and nutrients for maintaining the 3D biological micro-environment.
Principle of operation
The multi-organ chip platform is the foundation of a novel perfusion micro-bioreactor system for culturing different tissues within a common circulation system that facilitates characterizing the interactions between them.
The development of vascularized 3D tissue constructs can be accomplished via three-dimensional organ printing. The employment of specialized cellular matrix composites enables tiny permeable tubular fibers to be produced that act as three-dimensional structural supports for cells and simultaneously function as artificial blood vessels.
The interface between the tubular fibers and the micro-bioreactor system enables media to be supplied to the cells via the circulation system of the perfusion micro-bioreactor.
Applications
This advanced technology platform provides a new, high-performance tool for research and development in the field of tissue reconstruction, investigation of pharmaceutical drugs, and conducting cytotoxicity studies.