From organoids to organoids-on-a-chip: Current applications and challenges in biomedical research.
10.1097/CM9.0000000000003535
- Author:
Kailun LIU
1
;
Xiaowei CHEN
2
;
Zhen FAN
2
;
Fei REN
3
;
Jing LIU
1
;
Baoyang HU
1
Author Information
1. State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
2. Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
3. State Key Lab of Processors, Institute of Computing Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Disease modeling;
Drug testing;
Organ-on-a-chip;
Organoids;
Organoids-on-a-chip
- MeSH:
Organoids/physiology*;
Humans;
Biomedical Research/methods*;
Lab-On-A-Chip Devices;
Animals;
Microphysiological Systems
- From:
Chinese Medical Journal
2025;138(7):792-807
- CountryChina
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The high failure rates in clinical drug development based on animal models highlight the urgent need for more representative human models in biomedical research. In response to this demand, organoids and organ chips were integrated for greater physiological relevance and dynamic, controlled experimental conditions. This innovative platform-the organoids-on-a-chip technology-shows great promise in disease modeling, drug discovery, and personalized medicine, attracting interest from researchers, clinicians, regulatory authorities, and industry stakeholders. This review traces the evolution from organoids to organoids-on-a-chip, driven by the necessity for advanced biological models. We summarize the applications of organoids-on-a-chip in simulating physiological and pathological phenotypes and therapeutic evaluation of this technology. This section highlights how integrating technologies from organ chips, such as microfluidic systems, mechanical stimulation, and sensor integration, optimizes organoid cell types, spatial structure, and physiological functions, thereby expanding their biomedical applications. We conclude by addressing the current challenges in the development of organoids-on-a-chip and offering insights into the prospects. The advancement of organoids-on-a-chip is poised to enhance fidelity, standardization, and scalability. Furthermore, the integration of cutting-edge technologies and interdisciplinary collaborations will be crucial for the progression of organoids-on-a-chip technology.
