Microphysiological Systems: Closing The Gap Between Models And Medicine

Author: Tony Duong, PhD., Lead Drug Delivery Scientist

Microphysiological systems (MPS) are transforming biomedical research by offering a more human-relevant alternative to animal and traditional cell models. Built from human cells, MPS replicate critical aspects of tissue and organ function, generating faster and more predictive data in early drug development—where decisions carry the greatest weight.

Two main MPS platforms dominate: organoids, which self-organize into tissue-like clusters that capture cellular diversity and architecture, and organs-on-chips, microfluidic devices that simulate dynamic tissue environments. Both approaches bridge the gap between oversimplified 2D cultures and poorly predictive animal models, offering scalable systems that better mirror human biology.

MPS deliver several key advantages. They accelerate research timelines by enabling rapid establishment of study-ready tissues, improve predictive power with human-specific insights, and support high-throughput testing for efficient drug screening. Critically, they also detect safety issues earlier—such as drug-induced liver injury or cardiac arrhythmias—reducing costly late-stage failures. Additionally, patient-derived organoids and iPSC-based models allow exploration of genetic diversity and individualized disease responses, paving the way for personalized medicine.

Applications span toxicity screening, disease modeling, evaluation of gene editing safety, and individualized therapy development. Emerging multi-organ platforms even aim to simulate interconnected body systems, promising deeper understanding of whole-body drug responses.

While animal models remain essential in some areas, MPS are already reducing reliance on them and reshaping translational research. As technology matures, MPS are poised not only to improve drug discovery and safety testing but also to enable personalized, predictive medicine—transforming patient care in the years ahead.