University of Rochester Unveils Groundbreaking Microphysiological Systems for Disease Modeling
In a pioneering effort, researchers at the University of Rochester are taking a significant leap in disease modeling and drug discovery by developing state-of-the-art microphysiological systems (MPS). These innovative "tissue chips," which replicate the sophisticated 3D networks of human cells, will enable scientists to simulate infections and treatments in vitro, focusing on human lung and brain tissue models. This groundbreaking work, funded by a $7.1 million contract from the Department of Health and Human Services, aims to expedite research and improve medical outcomes for respiratory diseases and their neurological impacts.
Enhancing Drug Discovery with Tissue Chips
Principal investigator Benjamin Miller, a Dean’s Professor of Dermatology with dual appointments in biomedical engineering and materials science, emphasized the significance of these tissue chips in advancing drug discovery processes.
"This is another step toward making disease modeling and drug discovery focused from the very beginning on more complex, human-relevant systems," stated Miller. "These chips can help make the whole drug discovery process faster."
The project builds on the foundation laid by the Translational Center for Barrier Microphysiological Systems (TraCe-bMPS), a center established earlier this year with a $7.5 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. The center’s mission is to develop FDA-qualified tools for studying the body’s barrier functions in combating disease.
Integration of Modular Chips
Co-investigator James McGrath, the William R. Kenan Jr. Professor of Biomedical Engineering and director of TraCe-bMPS, has been investigating how inflammatory factors can penetrate the brain’s barrier through circulation and cause neurological damage. The new project will interlink two of McGrath’s modular, mass-producible chips—one that simulates the brain and another that models lung infections.
"This project will connect this ‘brain’ chip upstream of a second chip that models a common source of those injurious factors: the infected lung," explained McGrath. "I’m thrilled to be working with a highly interdisciplinary Rochester team and BARDA to develop what will be a scientifically important new tool."
Addressing Impacts on Long COVID and Influenza
The research also aims to shed light on the relationship between respiratory infections—such as those caused by common viruses like influenza—and chronic neurological symptoms, including brain fog and fatigue, commonly seen in patients with Long COVID.
Co-investigator Harris "Handy" Gelbard, director of the Center for Neurotherapeutics Discovery at the University of Rochester Medical Center, recognizes the wide-reaching implications of this investigation.
"The respiratory tract, with its cellular, humoral, and hard-wired conduits to the brain, stands as the first line of defense against emerging infectious threats from zoonotic spillovers," Gelbard stated. "We have the unique opportunity to fast-track our research in a new lung-to-brain chip."
Collaborative Research to Tackle Complex Diseases
David Dean, a professor of pediatrics and biomedical engineering, noted the limitations of traditional cell culture and animal models, stressing the importance of mimicking complex interactions between the various cell types in the lung through controlled conditions.
"Studying this required us to use cultured cells from the lung, but almost always, these are grown and studied by themselves… this is way too simplistic of a model," he explained. “On the other extreme, we have used animal models to test hypotheses and drugs in development, but these models are hard to control, making it difficult to attribute a response to a single pathway."
The collaborative team includes David Topham from the Translational Immunology and Infectious Diseases Institute, who will serve as another co-investigator, while Hani Awad will consult on the project. They will work alongside University of Rochester spinout companies Phlotonics and SIMPore in developing the necessary chips and technology.
Government Support for Innovative Research
The project’s substantial funding has garnered notable support from elected officials. US Senator Charles Schumer expressed enthusiasm for the cutting-edge research taking place in Rochester, commenting, "This investment speaks volumes about the world-class research happening right here. By developing microchips that mimic brain and lung tissue, our scientists are pioneering new ways to understand and combat respiratory diseases and their impact on the brain."
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand reinforced the importance of this contract, stating, "This will help researchers at the University of Rochester develop the most advanced technology to model respiratory disease effects and find ways to prevent and treat symptoms."
Congressman Joe Morelle added, "This significant federal award is further proof of their leadership and limitless potential. I congratulate their team of researchers on their outstanding achievements that will change the way we fight diseases."
Implications of Innovative Technology Development
This project marks a monumental step toward innovating how we study disease pathways and develop treatments. By harnessing the power of microphysiological systems, researchers hope to achieve breakthroughs that could lead to more effective therapies for a range of conditions, ultimately improving public health outcomes.
The ongoing exploration of the lung-brain connection and its implications for diseases like Long COVID is a testament to the potential of interdisciplinary collaboration in medical science. As Rochester’s researchers continue their vital work, the scientific community and the public alike can anticipate advancements that challenge existing paradigms in disease treatment and prevention.
Engage with us—share your thoughts or questions about this groundbreaking project in the comments below, and stay tuned for more updates on this revolutionary research initiative.
