Abstract

Microphysiological Models Relying on Emergence of Multi-Cellular Engineered Living Systems

Roger Kamm, Cecil and Ida Green Distinguished Professor of Biological and Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Recent work from many labs has demonstrated the unique capability of cells placed in 3D culture to self-organize into functional units and organ-like systems.  In some cases, pluripotent cells can be induced to differentiate down independent pathways, leading to an organoid.  In others, interacting units can be generated, often from iPS cells, and ‘engineered’ to interact in a way that recapitulates certain aspects of in vivo function or disease.  Such models have tremendous potential both to gain new insight into disease processes and for moderate throughput drug screening.  In this talk I will describe several models developed in our lab including a neuromuscular junction, blood-brain barrier, and vascularized skeletal muscle, addressing some of the design principles they have in common, the future potential, and barriers to progress.