Organ-on-a-chip (OOC) as an Alternative to Animal Testing

What is an Organ-on-a-chip (OOC)?

An organ-on-a-chip (OOC) – also known as a microphysiological system (MPS) – is a small technical device that helps to replicate the function of a human organ or part of an organ. To do this, living human cells or tissue are introduced into the system. Controlled by very small electronic and mechanical components, the living cells on the chip behave similarly to those in a real organ, such as the liver, heart, or lungs.

How is an OOC Constructed?

An OOC consists of tiny channels and chambers. These are located on a small plastic or glass chip.

• A nutrient solution flows through the channels. This supplies the cells with everything they need.
• The cells or tissue grow in the chambers.

The technology behind this is called MEMS, which stands for microelectromechanical systems. MEMS are very small, delicate components that combine electronics and mechanics. They make it possible to control fluids very precisely, observe cells, or even incorporate small pumps and sensors into the system.

In combination with biological material, this results in so-called bio-MEMS – MEMS with living cells.

What Can You Do with an OOC?

An OOC helps us to better understand the human body – without the need for animal testing or human trials. For example, it can be used to find out:

• How does a new drug work?
• Is a substance toxic or dangerous to the body?
• How do certain cells react to diseases or environmental substances?

Since the system closely mimics the human body, the results can be very accurate.

How does an OOC help to avoid animal testing?

Animals such as mice or rats are often used in research and drug development. This poses several problems:

• Animals do not always react in the same way as humans.
• Animal testing is expensive and takes a long time.
• Many people reject animal testing on ethical grounds.

OOC offer an alternative:

• They show how human cells react to certain substances – without animals having to suffer.
• In many cases, they are even more accurate than animal testing.
• Researchers can use them to study specific organs or diseases.

In this way, OOC help to reduce the number of animal experiments or even replace them altogether.

Where are OOC Used?

OOC are used in many areas:

• Drug development: New drugs are tested on OOC before they are tried on humans or animals.
• Personalized medicine: Cells from a specific patient can be used to find out which drug is most effective.
• Toxicity testing: Chemicals, cosmetics, and other substances are tested to see if they are harmful to humans.