University of Rochester researchers develop human tissue chips to replace animal testing

Researchers at the University of Rochester’s Translational Center for Barrier Microphysiological Systems (TraCe-bMPS) are developing human tissue chips, also known as organs-on-a-chip, to replace traditional animal testing in drug evaluation.

Animal models often fail to accurately predict how cancer immunotherapies will affect humans, particularly regarding dangerous side effects like cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS). These human-specific responses are difficult to replicate in animals due to differences in cellular receptors.

The new platform utilizes modular, mass-producible µSiM chips featuring ultrathin human cell membranes. Integrated sensors allow for real-time monitoring of inflammatory signaling and barrier function. The technology has been accepted into the FDA’s Innovative Science and Technology Approaches for New Drugs (ISTAND) pilot program, aiming for future regulatory acceptance in drug discovery processes.