Advanced in vitro models

Traditional toxicity testing of chemicals uses animal tests. The research within this theme focuses on developing and implementing advanced human cell models to better understand the action of potentially harmful chemicals. This research therefore contributes to a reduction in animal testing. Advanced cell models include culturing multiple cell types together on a chip through which medium with the chemical flow. In so doing, the cells better resemble tissues in situ that see many chemicals and nanoparticles, like the liver and intestines. These organs-on-a-chip devices allow for a molecular view of the effects of chemicals and nanoparticles have on the communication between different cell types in an organ.